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"Salut d'amour," Op. 12, is a beautiful and renowned musical composition by Sir Edward Elgar, a prominent English composer. Here are some interesting facts about this piece:

1. Inspiration: Elgar composed "Salut d'amour" in 1888 as an engagement gift for his future wife, Caroline Alice Roberts. The title translates to "Love's Greeting" in English, reflecting the romantic inspiration behind the piece.

2. Pseudonym: When Elgar initially wrote the piece, he used the pseudonym "Edward Melodramatic" to maintain a sense of anonymity. He later revealed himself as the composer after the work became popular.

3. Dedication: Elgar dedicated "Salut d'amour" to his fiancée, Alice, and even included a dedication on the published score: "à Carice." "Carice" is a combination of Caroline and Alice, referring to his future wife.

4. Instrumentation: The original version was written for violin and piano, but due to its popularity, Elgar later arranged it for various instruments and ensembles, including cello and piano, orchestra, and even a version for choir.

5. Publication: Elgar initially submitted the piece for a competition but did not win. However, the German publisher, August Jaeger, recognized its potential and published it. "Salut d'amour" soon gained widespread popularity and became one of Elgar's most beloved compositions.

6. Commercial Success: The piece became a commercial success, contributing to Elgar's early recognition as a composer. Its heartfelt melody and charming character have made it a favorite in the repertoire of many musicians and a popular choice for weddings and romantic occasions.

"Salut d'amour" remains a testament to Elgar's skill in crafting expressive and emotionally resonant music.