This story is free to read because readers choose to support LAist. If you find value in independent local reporting, make a donation to power our newsroom today.
Edward Elgar, Britain's Musical Icon, Turns 150
Edward Elgar conducts one of his own pieces, circa 1920. He's considered the quintessential British composer.
Listen
0:00
Listen
We know him as the man who wrote the music used at graduations, but in Britain, Edward Elgar means a lot more. It's the 150th anniversary of the composer who gave the British "Pomp and Circumstance" and one little "Enigma."
Elgar was the son of a piano tuner, and was largely self-taught. His music — stirring, patriotic and emotional — captured the spirit of England. But it has endured as music we continue to turn to for momentous occasions.
Copyright 2023 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org.