Worcester Cathedral Choir - Elgar: Cathedral Music (1988)

Elgar wrote church music throughout his life as an active composer. Although not the deepest, the selection presented here is beautifully made and full of attractive melodies and interesting harmonies. All three versions of "O salutaris hostia" are delightful, as are "Angelus" and the three short works that make up the composer's Opus 2. Of the later works, the anthem "O hearken thou" (written for the coronation of George V) and "Great is the Lord" are particularly good. The latter, a version of Psalm 48, was written at the same time as the violin concerto, and contains echoes of this great work. The Worcester Cathedral Choir performs this music with great insight and musicianship. They are led by Donald Hunt, who is an excellent Elgarian and leads performances that are perfectly judged in tempo, phrasing, and dynamics.
The recording is very good. It was made in Worcester Cathedral and perfectly conveys its acoustics. Michael Kennedy's notes in the booklet couldn't be better.
A necessary release for all Elgarians and fans of English church music. Highly recommended.