Sunday Worship

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Sunday Worship: Praise to the Holiest

Praise to the Holiest

BBC Radio 4 - Sunday Worship, Praise to the Holiest

A reflection on Elgar's sacred oratorios led by the Rev Dr Rachel Mann.

The Rev Dr Rachel Mann leads a reflection on Elgar's sacred oratorios featuring music from The Kingdom, The Apostles and The Dream of Gerontius.

In 1900 Edward Elgar composed what has been called "the greatest British work in oratorio form". The Dream of Gerontius is a favourite with choirs and audiences but after the first disastrous performance, Elgar wrote "I always said God was against art & I still believe it...I have allowed my heart to open once – it is now shut against every religious feeling & every soft, gentle impulse for ever."

Elgar went on to write The Apostles, focussing on the crucifixion, resurrection and ascension of Jesus and The Kingdom, which turns its sights to the founding of the early church. Though these two never gained the popularity of Gerontius, they continue to have an impact on performers and audiences alike, with their passionate music and mystical text.

The Revd Dr Rachel Mann leads a reflection on Elgar's sacred oratorios, exploring Elgar's faith and the spiritual meaning of these three choral works. We hear from musicians about their experience of performing and people for whom these works have a deep resonance.

Producer: Katharine Longworth

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