Edward Elgar: Elgar's Interpret On Record vol.5: Caractacus & other works (Elgar Editions Audio CD)

This 3CD set is compiled from 'off-air’ recordings of Elgar's works from BBC broadcasts made by engineer Kenneth Leech in the 1930's.

The archive is an important document and worthy of presenting on CD.

These recordings draw back a veil on musical history and some invaluable music-making, and furthermore document the performance style of the day. Unfortunately, not many of the performances are complete given the limitations of recording on disc, and having to change sides, but they have been carefully restored and re-mastered.



“This is one of the most exciting archival releases in recent years. Everything here has its interest and value, but at the centre are two performances of The ream of Gerontius: from 1935 under Sargent and 1936 under Boult. Both have Heddle Nash as Gerontius. ...Nash's singing is heard throughout with perfect clarity. And it is glorious! Sargent conducts admirably but (and this is the other dazzling glory of what we hear) Boult brings such a charge to his performance we see how his orchestra at just this time became one fit for Toscanini.”
Gramophone Magazine, August 2007