Premiere of Elgar's Enigma Variations at St James's Hall

Background. Elgar composed the Variations between October 1898 and February 1899, completing the full score by 18 February 1899. The work consists of fourteen variations on an original theme. The term 'Enigma' was associated with the opening andante theme, as noted by Jaeger and Elgar's manuscript, referring specifically to the theme rather than the entire work.

Premiere. The variations were first performed at St James's Hall in London on 19 June 1899, conducted by Hans Richter. Elgar described the performance as a great triumph, noting that Richter intended to play the work everywhere, including Vienna. The premiere established Elgar's growing reputation in Britain and internationally.

Reception. Following the premiere, the work quickly achieved popularity. Richter repeated the variations at his first concert in October 1899, an honour previously not accorded to an English piece of music. Elgar noted that Richter was playing the work in many big towns, including Birmingham, and planned performances in Vienna.