After Elgar's death in 1934, his reputation declined, and his music was largely ignored until the formation of The Elgar Society in 1951 helped restore it.
Performer Biography
William Vann, the director of this recording, is the fifteenth Organist and Director of Music at the Royal Hospital Chelsea since 1692, and has a particular interest in English choral and vocal music.
Historical Context
Worcester's St George's Church, where Elgar's father was organist and Elgar himself later served, was built in 1829, the year Roman Catholics were emancipated by Parliament.
Composition History
Elgar composed Ecce sacerdos magnus (Behold a great priest) in 1888 for the visit of the newly installed Bishop of Birmingham, Edward Isley, to St George's.
Composer Biography
Edward Elgar, the composer, taught himself music theory and large-scale forms, compensating for his inability to afford a formal musical education.
Composer Biography
Elgar's early musical development included composing for an unusual combination of instruments for friends and family, and serving as Bandmaster at Powick, a local mental hospital.
Recording & Production
This album includes several world-premiere recordings, such as Elgar's Psalm 51, the hymn tune Praise ye the Lord in C, and two versions of O Salutaris Hostia.
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