Nimrod, from Enigma Variations String Quartet - Digital Sheet Music

SKU: A0.1458677

Sir Edward Elgar’s Variations on an Original Theme, commonly known as Enigma Variations, may be the most wonderful musical tribute to friendship ever composed. Each of the fourteen variations is headed with initials or a code name of a family member or friend, with the last one being Elgar himself.

The best known variation is the ninth, entitled Nimrod. It represents Augustus Jaeger, Elgar’s close friend and editor at his publisher Novello & Company. In the Bible, Nimrod is referred to as “the mighty hunter”, thus identifying with Jaeger (Jäger), meaning “hunter” in German. The stately and serene variation expresses the depth of the composer’s feelings for his friend, and is often performed separately on solemn occasions. This arrangement is based on the original orchestral score, and Elgar’s own piano reduction, both published by Novello in 1899. Technically it is not too difficult, though with some double stopping to complete the harmonies and for fullness of sound.

CYPRESS PUBLISHING is pleased to be the imprint for arrangements for string ensemble by Stephen Levintow. He is a free lance professional violist and violinist specializing in chamber music, who began making string quartet and trio arrangements for wedding, party and corporate events, to expand the repertory or to improve on existing versions. Selections include unusual pieces by both familiar and lesser-known composers, plus standard classical and popular favorites.

The goal is to produce high-quality, musically satisfying arrangements faithful to the composer’s original material, yet sight-readable in most cases by working professionals or intermediate to advanced students. The full range of normal string technique is employed, while avoiding unnecessary technical complexity. Melodic material is distributed throughout the four voices where appropriate, to maintain listener and performer interest. All parts and scores are set in Sibelius© software format, with careful attention to legibility and page turns.