Focus on Elgar
Image © Barbara Taylor
Edward Elgar 1857-1934
One of England's greatest composers, Sir Edward Elgar, was born on 2nd of June 1857, in a pretty country cottage near Worcester in the heart of England.
After his death in 1934, Elgar's daughter Carice set up a Museum, as her father had wished. In 2000, the new Elgar Centre was added to the Museum, to display even more treasures from this wonderful collection.
Today we welcome visitors from all over the world, to enjoy a fascinating insight into Elgar's life and music, family and friends, musical development and inspirations.
Jemma's Involvment with Elgar
Jemma was selected to sculpt two life-size statues of Elgar. The first resides in the grounds of Hereford Cathedral, commissioned by the Elgar in Hereford group to celebrate his connections with the city. The second to celebrate his 150th anniversary was commissioned by the Elgar Foundation for the garden of the Birthplace Museum at Broadheath.
To finalise her designs for both these pieces Jemma did considerable research. Firstly reading memoirs and biographies, then making visists to the British Film Institite, Pathe Film Archives, National Portrait Gallery and the fund of archival material at the Birthplace museum. She also sought advice from singers, musicians and artists all influenced by the life and music of Elgar.
Elgar Collection
If you are interested in Elgar, take a look at Jemma's Elgar Collection, the culmination of many years of Elgar study.
Look at the Collection
The Elgar in Hereford Group
Having established the statue of Elgar, the group provides the continuing programme of events including two annual awards to recognise the contribution to music int he county of Hereford.
Elgar in Hereford Group
The Elgar Birthplace Musuem at Broadheath
The Elgar Birthplace Museum has a unique collection of material including Elgar's music scores, manuscripts, letters, concert programs, photographs, books and personal posessions. These form a varied annual exhibitions programme within the Birthplace Cottage and Elgar Centre.
Birthplace Museum