EDWARD ELGAR

These are the only available recordings of these works

This set presents these works as a complete set for the first time

The music composed for wind quintet by Edward Elgar is unique in terms of its orchestration.

As a budding musician, playing not only the violin but also the bassoon, Elgar wrote a quantity of music in his unfailingly beguiling lighter style for himself and four other wind players to perform. Elgar’s music for wind quintet is unique in its scoring, which replaces the horn with a second flute.

Written when Elgar was in his early twenties, these works bear no resemblance to the large-scale symphonies or massive oratorios. They are exquisitely crafted miniatures – called “shed” music by the composer after the place in which they were rehearsed. These charming miniatures, reflecting the composer’s youthful experimentation with classical models, are playful, and unfailingly inventive. Though they do not yet fully display Elgar’s distinctive voice, there are many hints suggesting the composer to come, particularly in the five Intermezzos.

This quintet music is a delightful departure from the standard woodwind quintet literature… This is a good addition to anyone’s collection of wind music.
‘These bubbly versions [10 Pieces for Wind] by the Athena Ensemble, the only ones in the catalogue, are highly recommended at bargain price.
Elgar was a slow developer, and these pieces written in his youth are hardly prophetic – but they’re craftsmanlike, charming and fun. This pioneering recording stands up well.
The pieces are treated to a bright and lively performance
In spite of its youthful naivete, the music is unusually colourful and sensibly written, taking account of the various
degrees of skills in the performers. Delectable.
The music is expertly performed with charm, sensitivity and imagination by the Athena Ensemble.
A delight, as well as essential for anyone wanting the whole of Elgar.


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