Edward Elgar: Sonata in G for Organ, op. 28 and Symphonic Idealism

Abstract

Edward Elgar's Sonata in G major for Organ, op. 28 demonstrates a pattern of symphonic influence and derivation in much of the work's compositional material. Discussion of the Sonata with respect to symphonic form and orchestration, comparison with nineteenth-century works including Brahms's Second Symphony, and revelation of a Pianola transcription of the Sonata will show that Elgar used the Sonata in G major for Organ, op. 28 to develop his compositional acuity in symphonic form. This work is an integral example of Elgar's compositional prowess--a vision fully realized in his First and Second Symphonies.