Reviewed by Simon Carpenter

What is the connection between pioneering rock musician Manfred Mann and the classical composer Edward Elgar? Answer, this CD. Some 40 years ago Mr Mann bought a collection of music manuscripts. They turned out to be 12 of the original hymn part books from St George's church, Worcester, dating from 1878 when the young Edward Elgar was assisting his father in the organ loft. Three of the hymns were identified as being original works by Elgar never before heard. This CD, recorded by Manfred Mann's label, includes these three as well as other original works composed by him for the Catholic liturgy at St George's, mainly hymns, and some youthful experimental works for choir and organ, of which the best known (well OK, I know it) is the setting of “Ave Verum”, which Elgar wrote in 1887. It is an enterprising programme, capably sung by the choir of the Royal Hospital which is of similar scale to that of St George's - though most probably vastly superior in ability. Pleasant and easy to listen to if you like 19th century choral music. In other words, one for the buffs, rather than a general audience.

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