Elgar Society Extends On-Line Library
The Elgar Society has announced the extension of its on-line
library of programme notes, giving musicians, researchers, teachers
and concert promoters unlimited single-source access to a succinct
description and background brief on over 100 individual works
by Sir Edward Elgar.
The notes have been added to the Elgar Society web-based resource
and are now freely available from the Elgar
– His Music page.
For ease of reference, links are given from the website’s
Chronology of Major Works, and the pieces have been categorised
under eight headings:
• Works for Chamber Ensemble and String Orchestra
• Choral Works
• Church and Ceremonial Music
• Concertos and Symphonic Works
• Incidental Music
• Other Orchestral Works
• Salon Music
• Songs and Other Vocal Music
Each entry includes essential technical data on format and
playing time, together with details of the first performance
and insights into any personal dedication made by Elgar at the
time of publication. Valuable background information is also
provided to set each piece into its compositional context, both
within Elgar’s body of work and within the prevailing
cultural, political and social landscape.
‘We’re delighted to be able to make this resource
so readily available,’ says Elgar Society Chairman Steven
Halls, who has been overseeing the completion of the project.
‘We trust it will prove particularly helpful for those
charged with the task of compiling concert programmes and also
help to inspire new performances of Elgar’s lesser known
works.’
Formed in 1951 to encourage the study, performance and appreciation
of the music of Sir Edward Elgar and to foster research into
his life and works, the Elgar Society brings members together
at branch, national and international levels through meetings,
lectures, recitals and visits, with members' individual and
collective research contributing significantly to a greater
understanding of Elgar and his legacy. For information on Elgar
Society membership, events and resources, visit the website
or e-mail us.
