Signed Elgar manuscript discovered in Loughborough

Score from 1923 found during council clear-out

Published: February 16, 2012 at 3:40 pm

An Edward Elgar manuscript has been discovered in a council building in Loughborough, almost 90 years after it was commissioned.

Staff at Charnwood Borough Council found the score in a dusty unmarked folder while clearing out a storeroom.

The short piece, called Carillon Chimes, was composed for the opening of Carillon Tower in Queen’s Park, Loughborough in July 1923. Copies of the original manuscript exist, but the original was believed to be lost after it was donated to the council in the 1950s.

As well as the signed original manuscript, officials at Charnwood Borough Council found several letters and a film reel, believed to contain footage of the tune being performed at the tower’s opening. The items have been valued at £10,000.

Councillor Paul Harley said: ‘I’m thrilled that this beautiful piece of work by one of Britain’s finest composers has been rediscovered, particularly in this Olympic year when the eyes of the world focus on all things British.’

The council hope to put the manuscript and letters on public display.

Mel Spencer

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