Worcester is an enigma just as Elgar - its most famous native citizen - is an enigma, defying an easy answer as to the source of his talents and who wrote about his social connections in a musical format, recognised around the world as the Enigma Variations.

In Worcester, the most prominent building is the magnificent mediaeval cathedral. It represents the image and impact of the last 1,000 years for within its complex are books of antiquity and wisdom and the tomb of John reviled for his cruelty yet remembered for sealing Magna Carta - arguably the most influential secular text ever prepared and still the basis for codes of conduct between citizens and states.

Its soaring nave and glorious graceful architecture has played host to the magic of music and particularly the sounds of that son of the city now honoured as Sir Edward Elgar, Master of the Kings Music and composer of the alternative national anthem - Land Of Hope And Glory - and several other orchestral works that inspire and comfort countless millions.

Elgar was born on June 2, 1857 - a year the British Empire will remember for the Indian Mutiny, which with hindsight signalled the end of the Raj.

By the time of the death of Elgar on February 23, 1934, the independence of India was drifting to inevitability and within 30 years the Empire days had ended and the European years had begun.

How could a local lad of modest schooling with parents who ran a music shop (and who are buried in Claines Church, Worcester with its famed hostelry the Mug House) and who was finally buried with his wife in a small churchyard on the eastern slopes of the Malvern Hills a few miles away, have become the symbolic sound for England around the globe. Therein lies the enigma that is Elgar.

The paintings of David Prentice of the Malvern Hills illustrate by colours, lines, shades and light the magic impressions that these massive granite stones exude and thereby inspire poets and painters and composers and walkers.

Perhaps one day another child will be born in Worcester and inspired by its musical traditions and the visions from the Malvern Hills will compose new music and so justify the efforts of today to maintain the music of Elgar.