Description
One of Elgar’s greatest works. It doesn’t get performed very often as it is so vast, requiring a full symphony orchestra, massive chorus, organ, and soloists. So you need a large venue and resources, not to mention the money to pay for it.
The work is in two parts. The first tells the story of Gerontius on his death bed, and the second where he meets an angel who guides his soul.
The prelude is really like an overture setting the scene. It is slow and dark, but with wonderful luscious harmonies and chromatics, and with a lilting ostinato in the bass, and it is truly Magnificent. 8 mins M
