Edward Elgar

Pomp and Circumstance op. 39/1

A 'Last Night of the Proms' without this march - unthinkable! 'Pomp and Circumstance Military March No. 1' with its middle section, the hymn-like 'Land of Hope and Glory' by Edward Elgar (1857-1934), belongs to the finale of the London music event like the Radetzky March usually played as last piece to the New Year's Concert of the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. The fame and popularity of the other four military marches composed by Elgar between 1901 and 1907 fade in comparison to this secret national anthem of Great Britain (although strongly rivalled by 'Rule, Britannia!'). It is, indeed, an equally rousing and catchy piece of music, and the catchy tune in the middle has just become a classical 'hit'. Thanks to the present edition, all those who do not have a large symphony orchestra at home can now play this rousing march by themselves.