German: Merrie England Suite; Nell Gwyn – Overture And Three Slovak Radio Symphony Orchestra, Adrian Leaper

Acknowledged by Sir Arthur Sullivan as his musical heir, Edward German enjoyed huge acclaim during his lifetime. His dances are ‘charged with the fragrant essence of the greenwood’ and the Overture to Nell Gwyn, with its richly English themes, explains Elgar’s liking for German’s music. Conductor Adrian Leaper has also recorded formidable recordings of Elgar and Wieniawski, and Havergal Brian, among many others. (Naxos)