Elgar: Organ Works
The first recording of our new Dobson organ—a mixed recital spanning repertoire from Bach and Stanley to Dupré and Messiaen—was designed to demonstrate the instrument’s considerable versatility. But behind the contemporary sophistication of its construction and design, this is essentially an English Romantic organ with a big, warm-hearted personality, securely grounded in the aesthetic traditions of the late 19th century, and this second recording highlights those qualities in music by the composer who pre-eminently shares them: Edward Elgar.
Benjamin Nicholas, Reed Rubin Organist and Director of Music, here proves himself a fine Elgarian and an inventive programmer, coupling Elgar’s two original major works for the organ with three transcriptions – including a first outing on CD for the superb arrangement of the Prelude to The Kingdom made by Herbert Brewer, Elgar’s contemporary and the long-serving organist of Gloucester Cathedral.
★★★★ Cohesive and convincing ... reveals the new Merton organ's affinity with late romantic repertoire.
Choir & Organ, March 2016
A musical and technical achievement ... captivating
Sunday Times, April 2016
A typically unfussy and well-balanced selection ... beautifully shaped phrasing ... imaginative brush strokes
Gramophone, May 2016
An unusual yet wholly recommended Elgar programme, in classy presentation and clear focused sound quality
Music & Vision, June 2016
Proudly assertive and delicately sensitive readings ... movingly played
MusicWeb International Recording of the Month, June 2016
★★★★★ Inspirational playing ... a recording to treasure
Organists' Review, September 2016
Sonata for Organ in G major, Op. 28:
I. Allegro maestoso
II. Allegretto
III. Andante espressivo
IV. Presto (comodo)
Nimrod (from 'Enigma' Variations, Op. 36) - arranged by William H. Harris
Prelude to 'The Kingdom', Op. 51 - arranged by Herbert Brewer
Gavotte - arranged by Edwin H. Lemare
Vesper Voluntaries, Op. 14:
Introduction (Adagio)
I. Andante
II. Allegro
III. Andantino
IV. Allegretto piacevole
Intermezzo
V. Poco lento
VI. Moderato
VII. Allegretto pensoso
VIII. Poco allegro – Coda
