A stunning new recording by Westminster Abbey Choir of sacred choral works by Sir Edward Elgar in celebration of the composer's 150th anniversary.

The Choir of Westminster Abbey
Robert Quinney organ
James O'Donnell conductor

From the regal opulence of Great is the Lord, first performed in Westminster Abbey in 1912, to the quiet devotion of the Opus 2 Ave verum and Ave Maria, this varied programme is the perfect guide through Elgar’s rich choral output.

The full gamut of Elgar’s career – from son of a provincial instrument dealer to ‘composer laureate’ – is represented and at every turn these performers offer new insights into the performing possibilities of these all-too-often-hackneyed works. There is also a rare performance of the long-forgotten Queen Alexandra Memorial Ode – a fitting tribute by Poet Laureate (John Masefield) and Master of the King’s Music (Elgar) to Edward VII’s much-lamented consort.

CD available at: www.hyperion-records.co.uk

Hyperion CDA67593

“The Westminster Abbey Choir delivers its organ-accompanied programme with beautiful tonal colour and blend.” - BBC Music Magazine

“The Abbey Choir … give an excellent account of themselves, the trebles especially singing with the confidence of professional musicianship and with voices in fine, generous bloom … Robert Quinney is a tremendous asset: an organist who puts his technical skill to imaginative use, sometimes … to vivid effect.” - Gramophone

“James O'Donnell never lets a detail pass or an effect count for nothing; likewise the Westminster Abbey Choir. Rarities, such as the Queen Alexandra Memorial Ode of 1932, receive equal care and attention … Above all, this disc projects Elgarian grandeur and dignity” - Classic FM Magazine