Elgar Serenade for Strings in E minor, Op. 20: Jolly Good Show, What!

Tasting Music III offers a more intimate approach to a work traditionally associated with string orchestra, the Serenade for Strings in E minor, Op. 20, by Sir Edward Elgar. Here, the musicians of WWCMF perform the piece in a chamber version with one player per part.

English restraint was evidenced in the late 19th Century by both the formality of the dress code and the tact with which one negotiated a moral quandary. It was nowhere in evidence, however, in the milieu of men’s facial hair, most notably when it came to the prodigious (roll the ‘r’, please) mustaches favored by composers such as Elgar.

While his pocket watch was wound to precision, his frock coat eternally buttoned, and the handle of his walking stick polished to a high sheen, Elgar in his music could be comparatively unruly with sentiment. The slow movement of this Serenade will set your passions ablaze, and we disavow any responsibility.

The E minor Serenade for Strings will certainly be a Good Show! Possibly even a Jolly Good Show!

Artists: Timothy Christie, Katri Ervamaa, Norbert Lewandowski, Christina McGann, Stephen Miahky, Philip Payton, Erik Rynearson, and Maria Sampen