Classical Notes: February 20, 2008 Archive

Elgar Puzzles

Posted at 5:00 PM on February 20, 2008 by Rex Levang

It's been out for a while, but I only just learned of this new solution for Elgar's Enigma Variations.

I once heard a recording of Leonard Bernstein rehearsing the Enigma Variations. In his comments to the orchestra, he said something like, "Elgar....yes...large, regal Elgar. We could discuss him over a pint of lager." You had to wonder if he came up with this impressive display of anagrams off the cuff, or if he had worked it up ahead of time. . . .