Episode 4. The Birmingham Oratory: Elgar and Newman
Fr Guy Nicholls joins Dr Joanna Bullivant at The Oratory in Birmingham to discuss the origins of Elgar’s work in Cardinal Newman’s own poetry, charitable work, and love of music.
Episode 3. The Firs and Birchwood Lodge: Natural Inspirations
Dr Joanna Bullivant visits Elgar’s Birthplace - The Firs - and Birchwood Lodge, where The Dream of Gerontius was written, and talks about the inspiration Elgar drew from the natural landscapes in these two locations.
Episode 2. St George’s Church, Worcester: Marginal Origins
Dr Joanna Bullivant is joined by Deacon Paul O’Connor to visit the Catholic church in which Elgar worshipped and acted as organist, and to discuss Elgar’s place in the history of Catholic Worcester.
Episode 1. Worcester Cathedral: A Civic Legacy
Dr Joanna Bullivant explores the tumultuous history of Elgar’s The Dream of Gerontius, and speaks to Samuel Hudson, Director of Music at Worcester Cathedral, to learn about the importance of Elgar’s work in Worcester today.