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.