In 1887 Elgar composed the
Laura Valse, probably for a soprano from Stratford whose family discouraged the attentions of the obscure music teacher. The autograph belonged to Steve Race, Elgarian and collector as well as radio personality. It was confirmed as being in Elgar’s hand for the 2001
New Grove Dictionary, and Race recorded the piece for a talk he gave to the Elgar Society. Since his death in 2009 the autograph has not been found, but
Laura was transcribed from Race’s performance on cassette by the composer Tim Murray.
from notes by Diana McVeagh © 2011
