Edward Elgar, the composer, was appointed Bandmaster at the Powick Asylum in 1879 at the age of 21, a position he held until 1884.
Compositional Technique
Elgar's music for the Powick Asylum was written for an "eccentric orchestra" of up to 19 players, consisting of asylum staff and local contacts, and was often very demanding for them.
Performer Biography
Barry Collett, the conductor on this recording, is recognized by the Elgar Society with honorary life membership and the Elgar Medal for his pioneering work in researching and performing Elgar's lesser-known works.
Composer Biography
Elgar's time at Powick Asylum was his first regular paid job, earning him about £33 per year, and provided him with early conducting experience and knowledge of woodwind and brass instruments.
Historical Context
The Powick Asylum, where Elgar worked, used music as a form of therapy for patients, with weekly amusements and a band that played for dancing.
Recording & Production
This album features first recordings of Elgar's Menuetto, A Singing Quadrille, and Music for Oboe and String Trio.
You might also enjoy...
Harrison Birtwistle: Secret Theatre
Birtwistle: Angel Fighter, In Broken Images & Virelai (Sus une fontayne)
Richard Barrett: Negatives
Brian Ferneyhough: Chamber Music
Philharmonia Composers' Academy, Vol. 3 (Live)
Pulsations
Ward: Madrigals & Fantasias
Wiegold: Earth & Stars
Composers' Academy, Vol. 3 (Live)
Harvey: Bhakti
Terminal Velocity
Walton: Viola Concerto / Sonata for Strings / Variations On A Theme by Hindemith
