Elgar Organ Sonatas
Recorded in 1984, this album marks the 50th anniversary of Edward Elgar's death. Organist at St Paul's Cathedral from 1973 until 2013, June Nixon shows her mastery and love of these Elgar works.
The first sonata (1895) is of symphonic proportions and was later orchestrated by Gordon Jacob. The second was part of Elgar's "Severn Suite" which was first composed for brass band, and later transcribed for orchestra. Ivor Atkins transcribed part of it for organ adding a cadenza which met with Elgar's approval.
Melbourne's St Paul's Cathedral organ is amply endowed with expressive and colourful registrational possibilities. June Nixon, organist at St Paul's from 1973 to 2013 performs with great fluency and attention to detail. Her kaleidoscopic changes in registration have been well thought out and involve virtually the whole range of stops in the Lewis organ.
The first sonata conveys all that is best in the English romantic tradition, with its four contrasting movements. Elgar's symphonic style is expressed in the richness of its harmonic structures, its delicate and daring orchestral tone colours, and captivating melodies.
Artist
June Nixon
One of Australia's best known organists, choir trainers and composers, June Nixon initially obtained Diploma of Music (piano) and Bachelor of Music (organ) from Melbourne University.
Press quote
“June Nixon has with musical sensitivity, interpretative insight and a skilful technique presented us with a collector's item which will occupy a treasured place among those of us who share a devotion to Edward Elgar.”
— Lindsay O'Neill, See
Track Listing
- Allegro maestoso
- Allegretto
- Andante espressivo
- Presto (comodo)
- Sonata No. 2 Op. 87A Introduction, toccata, fugue and cadenza Sir Edward Elgar
Sonata in G Major Op. 28 Sir Edward Elgar
Performers
Where to buy
Elgar Organ Sonatas is available for download from the iTunes Music Store.
It's available for streaming through
Apple Music.
Elgar Organ Sonatas is available as as CD. It can be purchased online through Buywell Music or the Australian Music Centre which both offer secure online ordering.
Move CDs can be ordered through music retailers across Australia including Readings.
Product details
- List price
- $25.00 AUD
- Release date
- 1985
- Copyright
- © 1984 Australian Broadcasting Corporation
- Phonogram
- ℗ 1985 Move Records
- Category
- Classical
- Catalogue number
- MD 3059
- Barcode
- EAN 9314574305920
