Programme 94 Dvorak and Elgar Variations Programme description

In today’s programme we are continuing to look at the topic the use of Theme and Variations, after Beethoven. We have music by Elgar and Dvorak.

Edward Elgar (1857–1934)
Enigma Variations, Op. 36 – 14 variations each portraying a friend of the composer

Antonín Dvořák (1841–1904)
Symphonic Variations, Op. 78 – a richly orchestrated and well-developed variation set

Dvořák and Elgar infused variation form with National Identity and Orchestral Color, cultural and personal identity.
The theme is used as mirror, not only transformed musically but emotionally and socially.

Bohemian composer Antonín Dvořák brought it to the orchestra with his Symphonic Variations—a colorful and inventive work that dances, sighs, and sings.

Meanwhile, in England, Edward Elgar took a deeply personal approach. Elgar’s Enigma Variations personalize the theme; each variation is a vignette.His Enigma Variations are portraits of his friends, each one full of character, wit, and affection. Together, they form a musical scrapbook of human connection.

Please come and join me for the music!