Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of Edward Elgar's masterpieces with this captivating album, "Elgar: Cello Concerto & Sea Pictures." Released in 2004 under Warner Classics, this collection showcases the profound depth and rich orchestration that Elgar is celebrated for. The album features the iconic Cello Concerto in E Minor, performed with exquisite sensitivity by the legendary Jacqueline du Pré, accompanied by the London Symphony Orchestra under the baton of Sir John Barbirolli. The concerto's four movements unfold with a poignant blend of melancholy and triumph, highlighting du Pré's unparalleled virtuosity and emotional resonance.
Complementing the concerto are the enchanting "Sea Pictures," a song cycle for mezzo-soprano and orchestra, beautifully rendered by Dame Janet Baker. Each of the five songs paints a vivid maritime landscape, from the serene "Sea Slumber-Song" to the dynamic "The Swimmer," offering a rich tapestry of vocal and orchestral artistry. The album concludes with the spirited "Cockaigne Overture," a lively and evocative piece that captures the essence of London life.
With a total duration of 1 hour and 8 minutes, this album is a treasure trove of classical music, perfect for both seasoned enthusiasts and newcomers to Elgar's work. The collaboration of these distinguished artists and the London Symphony Orchestra ensures a performance of unmatched brilliance, making this a definitive recording of Elgar's timeless compositions.
Elgar: Cockaigne Overture, Op. 40 "In London Town"Edward Elgar, Philharmonia Orchestra, Sir John Barbirolli
Elgar: Cello Concerto in E Minor, Op. 85: I. Adagio - ModeratoEdward Elgar, Jacqueline du Pré, London Symphony Orchestra, Sir John Barbirolli
Elgar: Cello Concerto in E Minor, Op. 85: II. Lento - Allegro moltoEdward Elgar, Jacqueline du Pré, London Symphony Orchestra, Sir John Barbirolli
Elgar: Cello Concerto in E Minor, Op. 85: III. AdagioEdward Elgar, Jacqueline du Pré, London Symphony Orchestra, Sir John Barbirolli
Elgar: Cello Concerto in E Minor, Op. 85: IV. Allegro - Allegro ma non troppoEdward Elgar, Jacqueline du Pré, London Symphony Orchestra, Sir John Barbirolli
Elgar: Sea Pictures, Op. 37: No. 1, Sea Slumber-SongEdward Elgar, Janet Baker, London Symphony Orchestra, Sir John Barbirolli, Sir Adrian Boult, London Philharmonic Orchestra
Elgar: Sea Pictures, Op. 37: No. 2, In Haven. CapriEdward Elgar, Janet Baker, London Symphony Orchestra, Sir John Barbirolli, Sir Adrian Boult, London Philharmonic Orchestra
Elgar: Sea Pictures, Op. 37: No. 3, A Sabbath Morning at SeaEdward Elgar, Janet Baker, London Symphony Orchestra, Sir John Barbirolli, Sir Adrian Boult, London Philharmonic Orchestra
Elgar: Sea Pictures, Op. 37: No. 4, Where Corals LieEdward Elgar, Janet Baker, London Symphony Orchestra, Sir John Barbirolli, Sir Adrian Boult, London Philharmonic Orchestra
Elgar: Sea Pictures, Op. 37: No. 5, The SwimmerEdward Elgar, Janet Baker, London Symphony Orchestra, Sir John Barbirolli, Sir Adrian Boult, London Philharmonic Orchestra