Workshop “The Dream”

ElgarEdward Elgar Saturday 27 Feb 2010, 10am – 4 pm Philip RobinsonPhilip Robinson
Led by Philip Robinson
Queen Elizabeth Hall, Oldham
(Map)

In preparation for our performance of the Dream of Gerontius on April 25th 2010, the Society organised a workshop to help them (and others)  to explore the background and learn more about the work.  It was led by Philip Robinson who does many multi-media presentations about major choral works.  He is the conductor of Grantham Choral Society and accompanist of the acclaimed female choral group “Cantamus”. For further information see Philip’s web site.

The event was a great success. Over 100 came – most of the choir and quite a few visitors. The acoustics in the rather low room we used we used left much to be desired, but the rehearsal sessions were still excellent and it was very useful to experience an interpretation from another musical director. The presentations were also excellent, with lots of pictures of Elgar’s many houses, and we heard about is background, his career, the people who influenced him, his periods of depression, and the greeat contribution from his wife.  There could have been more information about Cardinal Newman.