This release of Elgar’s oratorio The Apostles was recorded at one of those very special occasions when the excellence of the music, the quality of the performance and the atmosphere of the live concert combined to produce something quite remarkable. Sir Mark Elder conducted his excellent group of soloists; Chorus of Apostles; Hallé Choir; Hallé Youth Choir and Hallé Orchestra in an intensely powerful and dedicated reading. Elgar’s music was performed beautifully throughout achieving an elusive spirituality. If proof were needed of the importance of Elgar’s The Apostles then this marvellous release is the documentary evidence. © 2012 MusicWeb International

Recorded live, this marvellous performance of The Apostles is the latest in Sir Mark Elder’s exceptional series of Elgar recordings with the Hallé. A strong team of soloists and the excellent choir and orchestra make a very strong case for this unjustly neglected oratorio. Once again, Elder proves himself an instinctive and authoritative Elgar interpreter. © 2012 MusicWeb International