08/08/2026
Check out this fantastic review in The Elgar Society News!!!
Rare Elgar from Adrian Brown
By Philip Petchy
The Elgar Sinfonia of London (leader Ryo Koyama) under Adrian Brown continue their illuminating series of concerts of works by Elgar that are not frequently performed. On 21 June 2026 it was the turn of the Organ Sonata (Op. 28) as orchestrated by Gordon Jacob. Many have noted the orchestral qualities of the original work and Gordon Jacob enthusiastically accepted a commission to orchestrate it. There were those who attended this splendid performance who were left wondering whether or not they actually preferred this version.
It was followed by six orchestral songs from Opp. 48, 59 and 60. They were beautifully performed by Emily Gray, who looked cool despite the heat! We also enjoyed Gerald Finzi’s setting of Wordsworth’s Ode: Intimations of Immortality. It is beautiful music even if perhaps the words are a bit complicated to be given a musical setting. Nick Allen and the excellent London Chorus (chorus master William Vann) were both in good voice.
Elgar Works provided assistance for the Gordon Jacob arrangement and the Sinfonia continues to be supported by Colin and Clare Croly.
The next concert is on 22 November 2026 and will be celebrating the 75th anniversary of the Elgar Society. Chopin’s Funeral March as orchestrated by Elgar is perhaps not a work with which you would normally start a birthday party – but you will also hear the Concert Allegro for piano and Falstaff. If you are able to get to St Andrew’s, Holborn you should certainly put the date in your diary now!
