Sir Edward Elgar

about

Sir Edward William Elgar, 1st Baronet, (2 June 1857 – 23 February 1934) was an English composer whose works have become part of the classical concert repertoire in Britain and internationally. His notable compositions include orchestral pieces such as the "Enigma Variations," the "Pomp and Circumstance Marches," violin and cello concertos, and two symphonies. He also wrote choral works including "The Dream of Gerontius," as well as chamber music and songs. In 1924, he was appointed Master of the King’s Musick. While Elgar is often considered a typically English composer, many of his musical influences originated from continental Europe. He perceived himself as an outsider both musically and socially. As a largely self-taught composer in a musical environment dominated by academics, and as a Roman Catholic in predominantly Protestant Britain, he experienced a degree of suspicion. Additionally, his humble social background contrasted with the class-conscious society of Victorian and Edwardian Britain. He married the daughter of a senior British Army officer, who provided inspiration both musically and socially. Elgar struggled to gain widespread success until his forties, when the "Enigma Variations" (1899) achieved immediate popularity in Britain and abroad. This was followed by the choral work "The Dream of Gerontius" (1900), based on a Roman Catholic text, which initially caused some concern in the Anglican establishment but later became a central work in British and intern

top songs

albums

The Ultimate Collection

Enigma Variations ; Pomp and Circumstance

ELGAR: Enigma Variations (UK)

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101 Famous Classical Masterpieces Volume 5

ELGAR: Major Orchestral Works

Greensleeves

ELGAR: Piano Music

Hall Of Fame 2000

Violin Recital: Simone Lamsma

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The Last Night of the Proms

ELGAR: Enigma Variations / Pomp and Circumstance Marches Nos. 1 and 4 / Serenade for Strings

ELGAR: Music Makers / Sea Pictures

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