Sospiri - Edward Elgar

Edward Elgar composed 'Sospiri', Op. 70 just before the beginning of World War I. This adagio was originally intended for violin and piano, as a companion piece to 'Salut d'Amour'. Elgar had in mind the title 'Soupir d'Amour' (French for 'Sigh of Love'). While composing it, however, he realised that he was writing something more intense, and so chose an Italian word, 'sospiri', meaning 'sighs'. 'Sospiri' was dedicated to Elgar's long-time friend, the violinist W. H. 'Billy' Reed. The work was first performed on 15 August 1914 in Queen's Hall in London, conducted by Sir Henry Wood. Dutch arranger Andre Bodin arranged this wonderful adagio now for Symphonic Band.