The Dream of Gerontius

Elgar's masterful oratorio The Dream of Gerontius is performed in the magnificent setting of King's College Chapel, Cambridge by the BBC Singers, King's College Choir and BBC Concert Orchestra conducted by Director of Music Daniel Hyde. Tenor soloist Stuart Jackson sings the part of Gerontius and is joined by mezzo soprano Claire Barnett-Jones and bass James Platt.

The Dream of Gerontius for orchestra, double choir, semi-chorus and soloists is arguably Elgar's most enduring choral work and uses Cardinal Newman's text describing the journey of a pious man's soul after death. Gerontius' life is ebbing away when we first meet him and as he departs this life, so the priest sung by James Platt sends his soul on its way. On waking at the beginning of Part 2, a guardian angel sung by Claire Barnett-Jones leads Gerontius towards his judgement by God after encounters with demons and angels. Gerontius' soul is purged and purified in the lake of Purgatory before it enters Heaven, his Dream ending with a wonderful final chorus from the angels, consoling him gently.

Presented by Ian Skelly and recorded in November 2025 at King's College, Cambridge.

Elgar arr. Iain Farrington: The Dream of Gerontius

Claire Barnett-Jones (mezzo soprano)
Stuart Jackson (Gerontius/tenor)
James Platt (bass)
Choir of King's College
BBC Singers
BBC Concert Orchestra
Daniel Hyde (conductor)

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