Dream Children (Elgar)

Dream Children, Op. 43 is a composition for small orchestra by the English composer Sir Edward Elgar. It was inspired by Charles Lamb's essay "Dream Children: A Reverie," published in Essays of Elia (1823).

Elgar composed the piece in two versions, both scored for orchestra. The first version was completed in 1902, and the second, revised version followed shortly after. While sharing a similar thematic core, the two versions differ in orchestration and certain melodic details. The revised version is more commonly performed and recorded.

The music evokes a gentle, nostalgic atmosphere, reflecting the dreamlike quality of Lamb's essay. Lamb's essay explores themes of memory, loss, and the imagined existence of children he never had. Elgar’s music mirrors this sentiment through its delicate melodies, soft dynamics, and use of woodwinds and strings. The piece is characterised by its tender and wistful mood.

Dream Children is a relatively short work, usually lasting around four minutes in performance. It is often programmed as a lighter work within larger orchestral concerts, or as part of a suite of shorter pieces. The composition is celebrated for its expressive beauty and its sensitive interpretation of Lamb’s literary work.