Description
Elgar’s gorgeous Enigma Variations forever confirmed his position as a major composer. At the heart of this tribute to Elgar’s friends is the ‘Nimrod’ variation, among the most beautiful three-and-a-half minutes in music.
The Violin Concerto is also an enigma of sorts. The concerto is tinged with regret. At the head of the score he wrote, ‘Here is enshrined the soul of…’ Whose soul is Elgar commemorating? A woman’s, the violin’s (Elgar’s instrument) or his own? It is one of Elgar’s most intimate and romantic creations – ‘almost too emotional,’ Elgar said.
‘I’ve got a tune that’ll knock ’em flat!’ Elgar said as he worked on his first Pomp and Circumstance march. That tune needs little introduction, its solemn dignity has become the sound of Britain’s ‘stern and silent pride’ at everything from football matches to The Last Night of the Proms.
Elgar
Violin Concerto
Enigma Variations
Pomp and Circumstance - Marches