EDWARD ELGAR

Here is a unique collection of works by Elgar from his youth or about youth and childhood

The Ulster Orchestra’s performance of these charming works is available at ‘Classics’ price for the first time.

During the years 1907 and 1908, Elgar put together from music of his early youth – much of it written for a family to play – two suites of seven and six numbers respectively, and dressed them in a resplendent orchestral setting. These Suites, The Wand of Youth, are complemented here by the charming, yet restrained seven-movement Nursery Suite, written as a tribute to the two children of the Duchess of York, and Dream Children, a passionate work which yearns for a simpler time.

The three works together, issued here for the first time at ‘Classics’ price, constitute a nostalgic collection that makes for most pleasing listening. They are expertly played by the Ulster Orchestra under Bryden Thomson and, in the case of Dream Children, the Bournemouth Sinfonietta under Norman Del Mar.

This delightful, essentially gentle music highlights Elgar’s wistful recollections of childhood.

Bryden Thomson and the Ulster Orchestra manage to capture the childlike innocence beautifully.
Thomson catches the nostalgia without waxing sentimental… All admirers of Elgar should find this a source of considerable pleasure.
The playing in Ulster is attractively spirited; the music-making engagingly combines refinement and warmth. The Nursery Suite is strikingly well characterised, and with first-class digital sound this is highly recommendable.


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