Pomp and Circumstance

Pomp and Circumstance is often played at graduations, so many of those unfortunately not taking place this year. The composer of this song celebrates his birthday today, so let's learn a little bit more about Edward Elgar.

He is a British composer, born in Broadheath, Worcestershire on June 2nd, 1857. He died February 23rd,, 1934. His father owned a music shop, tuned pianos and played organ at his church. Edward had some violin lessons, but mainly was self-taught. He composed his first song at age 10.

The Song Pomp and Circumstance was It was composed in 1901 , and was used for the 1902 coronation of Britain's Edward VII

Disney's take on Pomp and Circumstance

(this version takes on the story of Noah's Ark)

Pomp and Circumstance on Boomwhackers

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Another song he was recognized for was "Enigma Variations". This song consists of a main theme and then 14 variations on this original theme. Elgar dedicated this work "to my friends pictured within", each variation being a musical sketch of one of his circle of close acquaintances. An "Enigma" is a puzzle.

Nimrod

(The City Band I play in enjoy playing this variation)

Troyte

(listen to this one and try to answer a few questions)

1. Is the song about a Man or woman, boy or girl? Or animal?

2. What age?

3. What do they look like?

4. What are they doing?

5. Draw a picture!

Now answer the same questions with this one:

(I'm not giving the title as that would give things away)

Here is another beautiful piece

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In case you were wondering about the questions I had you answer when listening to Troyte - here are the answers: The song is about Arthur Troyte Griffith. He was one of Elgar's closest friends who was about 40. This variation depicts him sheltering during a thunderstorm.

The other song was entitled: "G.R.S.: A Bulldog named Dan". This variation depicts a dog doing normal doggie things such as running around, biting a bone and panting. G.R.S. are the initials of the dog's owner - Dr. George Robert Sinclair.

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This one is called "Fairies and Giants". Fly around like a fairy when the music is delicate and stomp around like a giant when it gets louder.

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Salut d'amour (love greeting in french)