Elgar might never have reached his full potential but for the care and support of his wife, Alice. Donald Macleod explores some of the challenges they met together during their first years of marriage.

Elgar emerged onto the scene at a time when Britain was still described as 'a land without music'. He played a central role in reviving this country's musical reputation, and his success won him fame, honours and a place at the heart of the cultural establishment. Nevertheless, he cast himself as an outsider throughout his long career. Show less