Elias Parish Alvars

Donald Macleod explores the story of Devon-born harp virtuoso Elias Parish Alvars.

The 19th century was an exciting time for classical musicians. Urban centres across Europe and the New World were expanding rapidly, creating a profitable music circuit for touring performers – particularly if you had the talent and star-power to attract audiences in large numbers! A new breed of performer began to emerge: extraordinary virtuosos whose dazzling abilities made them into international sensations. Liszt, Chopin, Clara Schumann and Paganini are among the names best remembered today but there were many others. This week, Donald Macleod explores the life and music of four more 19th-century ‘showstoppers’ who were equally celebrated in their day, and who also turned their talents to composing.

Today, Elias Parish Alvars steps into the spotlight. He was born in Teignmouth, Devon in relatively humble circumstances, but his talents as a harpist took him right across the world. Elias had travelled to Europe, Moscow, Constantinople, Kiev, Odessa and the Black Sea, all by the time he was 26. We meet him as he arrives in Vienna, now craving a more settled life and looking for love.

Introduction, Cadenza & Rondo (extract)
Judy Loman, harp

Grand March Op.67
Katherine Thomas, harp, BBC National Orchestra of Wales, conducted by Jonathan Bloxham

Grand Duo on Donizetti’s Linda di Chamounix, Op.65
Simon Callaghan, piano
Clíodna Shanahan, piano

Harp Concerto in E flat Op.98, I. Allegro brillante
Marielle Nordmann, harp, Strasbourg Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Theodor Guschlbauer

Grand Study in Imitation of a Mandolin Op.84
Joel von Lerber, harp