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.

Track listing

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