Enigma Variations

Enigma Variations
Morfydd Llwyn Owen Nocturne* Side-by-Side
Elgar Cello Concerto in E minor, Op. 85
Elgar Variations on an Original Theme, Op. 36, ‘Enigma’
Alban Gerhardt cello
Cayenna Ponchione-Bailey conductor*
Marios Papadopoulos conductor
When Edward Elgar started to improvise a little tune at his piano one day, considering how a group of his closest friends might play that tune, he gave birth to one of the greatest masterpieces of English music. The ‘Enigma’ variations are uplifting and resigned, humorous and profound. Elgar’s dazzling, virtuosic orchestral showpiece comes after his acerbic, embittered and sorrowful Cello Concerto written in less happy times, and the rediscovered gem that is Morfydd Llwyn Owen’s sumptuous Nocturne.
The Sheldonian Theatre is a unique space to experience live music. To see an interactive map of the theatre click here.
03 Jun 2023
Tickets: £18, £30, £40, £54
(Students from £5)
Duration: 120 min
Venue: Sheldonian Theatre, Broad Street
(Students from £5)
Upcoming events
View All EventsAngela Gheorghiu
19 Jun 2025 – 19:30
Angela Gheorghiu, one of the most glamorous and gifted opera singers of our time, returns to perform with the Oxford Philharmonic Orchestra to close the season.
Learn MoreFire and Water, By Candlelight
11 Jul 2025 – 19:30
Experience the sounds of Baroque in a concert in London featuring Handel’s lively Water Music and the grand Music from the Royal Fireworks performed by the Oxford Philharmonic Orchestra.
Learn MoreFire and Water
12 Jul 2025 – 19:30
Experience the sounds of Baroque in a concert featuring Handel’s lively Water Music and the grand Music from the Royal Fireworks performed by the Oxford Philharmonic Orchestra.
Learn MoreAngela Gheorghiu
Jun 19 2025 – 19:30
Angela Gheorghiu, one of the most glamorous and gifted opera singers of our time, returns to perform with the Oxford Philharmonic Orchestra to close the season.
Learn MoreFire and Water, By Candlelight
Jul 11 2025 – 19:30
Experience the sounds of Baroque in a concert in London featuring Handel’s lively Water Music and the grand Music from the Royal Fireworks performed by the Oxford Philharmonic Orchestra.
Learn MoreFire and Water
Jul 12 2025 – 19:30
Experience the sounds of Baroque in a concert featuring Handel’s lively Water Music and the grand Music from the Royal Fireworks performed by the Oxford Philharmonic Orchestra.
Learn More