Elgar, O.M. : a study of a musician
Sir Edward Elgar is, beyond a doubt, the most universally known among the English composers. He is, on one hand, ranked among the great and classical masters of European music; and, on the other esteemed as one who can, by his melodic genius, compel the admiration even of the unmusical. The story of Elgar's life is here fully told. The author, having been allowed access to the whole of the Elgar papers and assisted in many particulars by the composer's daughter, writes with authority and draws a fascinating and detailed portrait. Many facets of the character and career of the great Englishman are set out against a skillfully drawn background of social, artistic, and political affairs. The author, a practicing musician, deals with Elgar's music with penetration and sympathy. Not only does ne consider practically every published work, but also a vast number of manuscript sketches and unpublished pieces. From these he draws conclusions which are sometimes startling and always stimulating
Print Book, English, 1955
Collins, London, 1955