Adagio

An adaptation of "Nimrod," Variation IX in Edward Elgar's orchestral Enigma Variations. In this symphonic work each variation bears a title or the initials of a particular friend or family member. "Nimrod" is dedicated to a close friend, music critic Augustus Jaeger (Jaeger being the German word for hunter), and "Nimrod" being a Biblical person known as "a mighty hunter." According to Elgar's own notes, it reflects a discussion the two men had aboutthe incomparable slow movements of Beethoven, and the opening bars were intended to suggest the beginning of the slow movement of the "Pathetique" Sonata. "Nimrod" has been considered by many to be the emotional heart of the entire work. As the most famous of the variations, it is often performed on solemn occasions. The tempo and expressive markings are taken directly from the original orchestral score. The organist may apply a wide array of dynamicsand color to the work.