Elgar: Sea Pictures, Op. 37

Classic FM Magazine referred to Li-Wei’s performance of the Elgar Cello Concerto as “Untarnished sensitivity….as well as impeccable tuning.” This is a re-release of her stirring performance and is arguably one of the finest recordings of the work.

Elgar’s Sea Pictures sung by a man, and a baritone, of the calibre of Roderick Williams is an eye-opening experience for all Elgarians, making one wonder why it had not been done before. Dutton Epoch’s pioneering exploration of this repertoire has to be heard, and you will surely return to Roderick’s interpretation again and again. This is a remarkable programme of orchestral song cycles in which Roderick Williams is accompanied by the BBC Concert Orchestra conducted by Martin Yates; it also features the world premiere recording of Elgar’s songs for Pageant of Empire – seven gloriously tuneful numbers in Elgar’s most expansive vein. Ivor Gurney’s Light’s Out and Michael Hurd’s Shore Leave, both haunting and evocative song cycles with the Concert Orchestra, make this an unforgettable portrait of the art of Roderick Williams. This is a worthy companion to Dutton Epoch’s earlier CD of Roderick Williams in orchestral songs (CDLX 7199 ‘Sea Fever’).

George Weldon was conductor of the CBSO until 1951. On this release he is heard conducting the LSO in performances of ‘In The South’ and ‘Sea Pictures’ made at Studio No.1 at Abbey Road in 1953. Conductor and orchestra are joined by contralto Gladys Ripley for the song cycle. The ‘Enigma Variations’ was recorded in 1954 at the Kingsway Hall and produced by Walter Legge

Andrew Neill writes: “Edward Elgar became an early star of the gramophone and the recordings he made (and supervised) between 1914 and 1934 remain among the great contributions to the recorded repertoire… Elgar was absolutely sure of himself as a conductor of his own works… He never tried to disguise the fact that his own music thrilled and delighted him.” This collection includes such gems as Beatrice Harrison playing the Cello Concerto and Fringes of the Flleet and will be of great interest to collectors.