Riddles have fascinated humankind for many thousands of years.

“The Enigma I will not explain – its ‘dark saying’ must be left unguessed […]” So described Edward Elgar his world-wide renowned “Enigma” Variations. Ever since he made this statement, people have been trying to find a solution to the riddle behind this composition. A piece, dealing with friendship, love, and the most personal experiences; bold brass chords and the most intimate string textures, all rounded off by the compelling sound of the organ.

However, also many films depict riddles, such as The Imitation Game centring around how Alan Turing cracked the code of the Germans during World War II; and The Theory of Everything depicting the life of Stephen Hawking.

The concert will also feature a commission written by Capella Edina’s Composer in Residence, James Clay.

Are you ready to crack the code and solve the enigma behind Elgar’s work?

Programme

James Clay: Afterland  (Capella Edina Commission)
Jóhann Jóhannsson: Suite from “The Theory of Everything”
Arthur Bliss: A Knot of Riddles

– Interval – 

Alexandre Desplat: Suite from “The Imitation Game”
Edward Elgar: Variations on an Original Theme, op. 36 (“Enigma”)

Age restriction

Under 16's with an adult 18+

Access Bookings

Please contact the box office on 0131 228 1155 or by emailing boxoffice@edinburgh.gov.uk in order to book wheelchair spaces and disabled companion places.