A music Workshop by Bernard Keeffe with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra leader ERICH GRUENBERG
It was not until 1899, when Elgar was 42, that the first performance of Enigma Variations revealed to the world a master-composer for the orchestra. Until then Elgar's life had been one long uphill struggle for recognition.
In this programme, filmed partly in the sweeping Malvern Hills of Elgar's homeland, BERNARD KEEFFE describes how, entirely self-taught and despite many drawbacks, Elgar achieved a unique orchestral sound. He conducts illustrations ranging from the first piece Elgar ever had played in public to his remarkable virtuoso composition for orchestra, the Second Symphony.
Producer KENNETH CORDEN
Barenboim's recording of Elgar's Second Symphony: Thursday, 4.45, Radio 3