Album insights
At the dawn of the 20th century, British concert organists boldly circled the globe, exporting their fabulous instruments to the farthest corners of the British Empire. One of these organists, Alfred Hollins, missed the chance to play the magnificent English Norman & Beard organ of Wellington Town Hall, but Edwin Lemare seized the opportunity three months later. Lemare astounded an audience of over three thousand people at the grand opening, who experienced a realm of enchanting sounds described as a 'magical world of wonders' (New Zealand Times).
British-born organist Alfred Hollins, who gained global recognition during his early career tours, was a pianist as well. Born in Hull and nearly blind from birth, he later served as an organist at a church in Edinburgh, where he passed away at the age of seventy-six. His piece "Trumpet Minuet" exudes a periodic atmosphere with a cheerful melody reminiscent of natural trumpet tones found in works like Handel's "The trumpet shall sound."
Edward Elgar, known for his organ compositions, including Vesper Voluntaries, also crafted smaller pieces that didn't match the grandeur of the Sonata in G. In 1895, Elgar's Sonata was featured at a concert in Worcester Chronicle, showcasing the brilliance of Mr. Hugh Blair playing the organ piece.
Herbert Sumison's musical career flourished in and around Gloucester Cathedral, where he transitioned from a choir singer to an organist. His "Introduction and Theme" from 1932, transformed three years later, encapsulates simple modal melodies evolving into a fantasy exuding romantic sentiments.
Paul Spicer, a musician deeply connected to 20th-century English music, drew inspiration from renowned composers like Howells and Finzi. His compositions, such as the entertaining "Variations," premiered at the Three Choirs Festival, reflecting a blend of amusement and homage to musical traditions.
Craig Sellar Lang, hailing from Napier in New Zealand, established himself in England after studying at the Royal College of Music. Lang's renowned "Tuba Tune" showcases vibrant vigor and a sense of occasion, firmly cementing its place in musical repertoire.
Edwin Lemare, a celebrated organ virtuoso, faced personal and professional challenges that eventually led him to America, where he found and lost success. Despite composing numerous noteworthy pieces, Lemare's compositions have been somewhat overshadowed and merit rediscovery.
A vivid example is his Concertstück, incorporating a Polish dance inspired by Chopin, creating an energetic Polonaise phantasy interwoven with emotions. Wagner's opera "Die Meistersinger" depicts the triumph of art over prejudice, symbolizing Wagner's artistic journey and struggles. The opera revolves around a song contest held by the Nuremberg Meistersingers, where the successful singer aims to win Eva's hand in marriage. The overture intertwines powerful themes representative of the Meistersingers and lyrical motifs symbolizing artistic freedom, culminating in a glorious musical portrayal.