Handel/Elgar Overture in D minor.

[George J]

Fascinating to be able to hear Elgar conduct his rather splendid orchestral recasting of this music by Handel. Many surprising aspects, not least the stylish grasp of the over-dotted rhythms we expect "as being learn'ed and stylish" from HIP concerts of the original music these days. There is nothing new in the World really.

Also the normal at the time shallow vibrato from the violins. Of course the the 98 year old recording is quite limited, but may be considered surprisingly good as well.

I hope you enjoy this little glimpse into the old style, of music making. Best wishes from George

 

[George J]

Here is Boult's 1971 recording of the music. It certainly is a grand swaggering arrangement, but there is a strong grandiose element in Handel when composing public music! Think of the Royal Fireworks music designed for a wind orchestra based on forty oboes! ... Heavy metal Handel!

Here is one of the appearances of the music as it appeared in the Opus Three Concerto Grosso in d minor:

And here is MacKerras' famous 1959 recording for Pye using the scale of forces planned for the original performance in the early eighteenth century. Not a violin to be found here, just a huge wind orchestra including the winds of just about every orchestra in London at the time. They recording in the wee small hours of the morning so as to assemble a once in a lifetime sized orchestra of wind players!

Best wishes from George