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Elgar Birthplace Museum, Worcester

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Edward Elgar was born on 2nd June 1857, the son of a Worcester piano tuner. Visiting Elgar's birthplace in Worcester brings home his humble origins. Elgar left school at fifteen, and had no musical education beyond that of his instrumental lessons, mostly with local teachers in Worcester. He grew up at a time when music was becoming more accessible, for both performers and audiences. Technical changes in musical instrument manufacture meant that people like young Edward had a better chance of making music. Social changes meant that the potential audience he had to appeal to was much bigger. But as society changed there was also a fear of change. Fittingly Elgar, popular though he was with his rousing marches, was also a very traditional man, who wrote music in a classical style.

The Birthplace Museum was opened by his daughter Clarice in 1934. It presents the composer's life with the help of music scores and personal possessions, which include his gramophone - Elgar realised early the potential of recorded music. The Elgar Centre is a new building nearby which provides a larger exhibition space.

 

 

Opening Times: Open daily 11am - 5pm. Closed 24th December - 31st January inclusive.

Directions: The museum is in the village of Broadheath off the A44 betwen Worcester and Leominster. From the M5 use junction 7 and follow the A4440.

Address: Elgar Birthplace Museum, Crown East Lane, Lower Broadheath, Worcester, WR2 6RH. Click here for an interactive map centred on Elgar Birthplace Museum.

Access: Wheelchair access in the cottage is limited to the ground floor. In the modern Elgar Centre there is complete wheelchair access. Large print guides are available for people with sight difficulties. Adapted toilet facilities are provided.

Contact:

telephone: 01905 333224

fax: 01905 333426

e-mail: birthplace@elgarmuseum.org

web site: http://www.elgarmuseum.org/index.htm