description Enigma Variations, Op. 36 Overview
The Enigma Variations, Op. 36, is an orchestral work by Edward Elgar, composed in 1898–99. It consists of a theme and fourteen variations, each musically depicting one of Elgar's friends or acquaintances, including the celebrated "Nimrod" variation dedicated to his publisher August Jaeger. The variations are identified by cryptic initials or nicknames.
The work also alludes to an unstated hidden theme, the "enigma," which Elgar never publicly revealed and which remains debated by scholars.
help Enigma Variations, Op. 36 FAQ
Who is Nimrod in Elgar's Enigma Variations?
"Nimrod" is the ninth variation in the piece and represents Augustus J. Jaeger, Elgar's close friend and music publisher. The name is a clever play on Jaeger's last name, which means "hunter" in German, just like the biblical hunter Nimrod.
How many variations are in Elgar's Enigma Variations?
The piece consists of a main theme and fourteen subsequent variations, composed in 1899. Each variation is a musical portrait of one of Elgar's friends or acquaintances, including his wife, whose variation is titled "C.A.E."
What is the hidden enigma in Elgar's Variations?
The central "enigma" is a hidden, unstated theme that Elgar claimed runs throughout the entire piece but is never actually played. Countless musicologists have theorized what it could be, ranging from the melody of "Auld Lang Syne" to the "Dies Irae" chant, but it remains an unsolved musical mystery.
When did Edward Elgar compose the Enigma Variations?
Edward Elgar composed the variations in 1898 and premiered them in 1899. The unexpected success of this specific work propelled him from a relatively unknown regional composer to international fame.
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