Skip to content
Skip to content

Nimrod and Elgar's First Symphony. A Talk by Richard Westwood-Brookes

Join Elgar expert Richard Westwood-Brookes for a special one-hour talk uncovering the powerful story behind “Nimrod” and Elgar’s First Symphony.

  • Booking not needed
  • Free event (admission applies)

Elgar immortalised his friend and editor August Jaeger as “Nimrod” in the Enigma Variations but throughout his life, Jaeger longed for Elgar to fulfil his true ambition: to write a symphony.

Join Richard Westwood-Brookes for a fascinating talk that traces this remarkable relationship from its hopeful beginnings to its deeply moving and poignant end, revealing the story behind one of Elgar’s greatest achievements.

Times

Prices

Event ticket prices

This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.

Check admission prices

The basics

Meeting point

This event takes place in the Carice Room in the Visitor Centre.

Upcoming events

Parent Pop with Hannah Morse 

Join other parents for feel-good singing to favourite pop classics, and move to the music with your child.

Event summary

on
22 May 2026
at 10:00 to 10:45

The Mystery of Elgar's Enigmatic Violin Concerto. A talk by Richard Westwood-Brookes 

Elgar’s Violin Concerto has long been described as a “love affair in music” but who inspired it? Discover the intrigue behind this enduring mystery at a captivating one-hour talk by renowned Elgar expert Richard Westwood-Brookes.

Event summary

on
22 May 2026
at 12:00 to 13:00

The Dream of Gerontius. A talk by Richard Westwood-Brookes 

Join historian Richard Westwood‑Brookes for a captivating one‑hour talk as he delves into the story behind Elgar’s The Dream of Gerontius—a masterpiece shaped by ambition, controversy, and a famously troubled first performance.

Event summary

on
22 May 2026
at 14:00 to 15:00

Musical Melodies: A Singalong at The Firs 

Join our Musical Melodies drop-in session — an inviting, karaoke-style singalong for all ages. Enjoy familiar songs in a relaxed setting and let the music gently lift your spirits.

Event summary

on
25 May 2026
at 11:00 to 13:00