When did Edward Elgar write the Enigma Variations?

Enigma Variations. Edward Elgar composed his Variations on an Original Theme, Op. 36, popularly known as the Enigma Variations, between October 1898 and February 1899. It is an orchestral work comprising fourteen variations on an original theme.

How many variations are there in the Enigma theme?

The theme is followed by 14 variations. The variations spring from the theme’s melodic, harmonic and rhythmic elements, and the extended fourteenth variation forms a grand finale. Elgar dedicated the piece to “my friends pictured within” and in the score each variation is prefaced the initials, name or nickname of the friend depicted.

Who is Caroline Alice Elgar in the Enigma Variations?

Caroline Alice Elgar, Elgar’s wife. The variation repeats a four-note melodic fragment which Elgar reportedly whistled when arriving home to his wife.

Why is the opening bar used in the Enigma Variations?

Elgar explained, “It may be noticed that the opening bar, a phrase made use of throughout the variation, is an ‘exercise’ for crossing the strings – a difficulty for beginners; on this is built a pensive and, for a moment, romantic movement.” Arthur Troyte Griffith, a Malvern architect and one of Elgar’s firmest friends.

How many variations are there in the Enigma Variations?

It is an orchestral work comprising fourteen variations on an original theme. Elgar dedicated the work “to my friends pictured within”, each variation being a musical sketch of one of his circle of close acquaintances (see musical cryptogram).

Who is the veiled dancer in the Enigma Variations?

Elgar suggested that in case the Variations were to be a ballet the Enigma would have to be represented by “a veiled dancer”. Elgar’s remark suggested that the Enigma in fact pictured “a friend”, just like the variations. His use of the word “veiled” possibly indicates that it was a female character.