The Dream of Gerontius
The music is written in a late Romantic style which is clearly inspired by Wagner, especially by his opera Parsifal.  The opening of “The Dream of Gerontius” is a long orchestral introduction which uses themes that are going to be important in the work.  The music of the character Gerontius is sometimes in speech rhythm (similar to recitative) but often very lyrical.  Elgar moves quickly from one style to the other.  The chorus provides a wonderful reflection on what is happening.  The chorus of angels singing “Praise to the Holiest in the Height” is particularly beautiful. The chorus of demons is very difficult to sing. Notably, the moment where Gerontius is judged by God does not feature the choir. Instead, the orchestra has crescendos until climax and then decrescendos.