Album insights
Baron Frédéric Alfred d’Erlanger, known as "Baron Freddy" to his family and friends, was a composer and a member of an esteemed banking family. Born in Paris to a German father and an American mother, he later became a naturalized citizen of England, residing in London for most of his life. In addition to his banking lineage, he devoted himself to composing music. He played a significant role in promoting and funding musical events, particularly at the Covent Garden Opera, becoming a board member of the London Philharmonic Orchestra. His compositions, frequently performed by renowned artists of the time, included popular works such as the ballet music Les cent baisers and the waltz Midnight Rose, recorded by Barbirolli on an early LP.
D’Erlanger's career as a composer began in the world of opera. His Opéra comique, Jehan de Saintré, premiered in Aix-les-Bains in 1893 and later in Hamburg. Leveraging his connections outside England due to his European banking background, his opera Das Erbe was also staged in Hamburg, Frankfurt, and Moscow. One of his notable works, Tess, based on Thomas Hardy’s Tess of the d’Urbervilles, was well-received and interrupted by a volcanic eruption during its first performance in Naples in 1906. The opera went on to captivate audiences in multiple cities, showcasing talents like Emmy Destinn and Giovanni Zenatello in lead roles.
D’Erlanger's symphonic compositions, such as his Symphony No. 2, and his Violin Concerto in D minor, performed by Fritz Kreisler in London, added to his musical reputation. His repertoire also included the Piano Concerto (1921) and the beautiful Messa de Requiem (1930), admired by conductor Adrian Boult. His chamber music, though limited in volume, reflected his distinct style and talent, with the Piano Quintet gaining praise for his virtuosity at the keyboard.
Thomas Dunhill, a contemporary and friend of d’Erlanger, established himself as a composer with a focus on chamber music. His works, especially the Piano Quintet in C minor, resonated with traditional English themes, engaging audiences with their lively and convivial character. Through his dedication to chamber music and contributions to music education, Dunhill solidified his standing as a significant figure in the British music scene.