Reviewed by Steven Whitehead

Edward Elgar is probably - and rightly - best known for his orchestral works but he was also a very capable writer of choral music with an unerring sense for musical development and drama allied to a glorious ear for melody. This collection follows him from early settings for the Catholic liturgy, such as three anthems written after he had become organist at the Roman Catholic Church of St George in Worcester, right through to the pinnacle of his success as Sir Edward, the member of the Order of Merit, with powerful settings such as "Great Is The Lord" of 1912. There are also extracts from "The Apostles" and "The Light Of Life" making this a useful survey of a great career. Christopher Robinson, who has now retired as organist and director of music at St John's College, knows Worcester well, having worked at the cathedral and with the Three Choirs Festival from 1963 to 1974. He has got yet another superb performance from his choir and Jonathan Vaughn the organist and this collection is warmly recommended to all who admire Elgar or appreciate English choral music at its best.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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