10 things you might not know about Elgar

Wed 4 Jun, 2025

Edward Elgar was one of Britain’s most famous composers, but there are some things you might not know about him...

1. A Worcestershire man 

Edward Elgar was born in the village of Broadheath, near Worcester, on 2 June 1857. He had a great love of the countryside, particularly the Malvern Hills, and it inspired much of his music. He returned to his Worcester home for the final years of his life. 

2. A self-taught genius 

Beyond violin and piano lessons as a child, Elgar had no formal music training. He taught himself to play other instruments and to compose, beginning his career as a freelance musician. 

3. A scientist 

Elgar had an interest in science and technology and was an amateur chemist. He set up his own laboratory at home and notably created a device for synthesising hydrogen sulphide.

4. A secret keeper 

In 1899, Elgar wrote one of his most famous works: his beloved Enigma Variations. Each variation was written as a tribute to one of the composer’s loved ones. The Enigma, however, Elgar never explained – it’s a puzzle yet to be solved.

5. A national treasure

‘Nimrod’ is perhaps the most famous of Elgar’s Enigma Variations. It’s featured at many major moments including King Charles’ coronation, state funerals, the London Olympic Games, and Remembrance Sunday services at the Cenotaph. 

6. A Sir 

Elgar was knighted at Buckingham Palace in 1904 by King Edward VII.

7. A professor 

In 1905, Elgar became the very first Professor of Music at the University of Birmingham. 

8. A note-worthy icon

From music notes to bank notes … Up until 2010, you’d have spotted Elgar’s face on a standard £20 note in the UK. 

9. A graduation game changer 

Alongside Enigma Variations, Elgar’s Pomp and Circumstance March No. 1 is one of his most famous works and was the first music ever to be recorded at Abbey Road Studios. Beyond the concert hall, it’s played at graduation ceremonies all over the world, most notably in the United States.

10. An inspiration 

Elgar’s music has gone on to inspire many great musicians. Benjamin Britten described him as “a far greater composer than most people understand”. Hans Zimmer rearranged Nimrod for Christopher Nolan’s Dunkirk. And Ed Sheeran’s album Autumn Variations was inspired by the beloved Enigma Variations.