Great
Classical Music
Composers

Sir Edward ELGAR

2 June 1857 - 23 February 1934 (age 76)

Portrait by Paul Helm

Edward Elgar, important English 20th century composer. His 'Land of Hope and Glory' is one of the highlights of the annual 'Last Night of the Proms' in London.

Family

Edward William Elgar
Born: Near Worcester, England. 2 June 1857
Father: William Elgar, music shopkeeper, piano tuner and church organist
Mother: Anne (Greening)
Siblings: Harry, Loo, Pollie, Ted, Jo, Frank.
Wife: (Caroline) Alice Roberts
Children: daughter Carice Irene
Religion: Catholic
Died: 23 February 1934 of cancer
Grave: Saint Wulstan’s, Little Malvern.Worcestershire

Works:

3 Symphonies
Cello concerto
Violin Concerto
Enigma Variationa
Dream of Gerontius

Elgar: A Life in Pictures

Quotes

"I like to look on the composer's vocation as the old troubadours or bards did. In those days it was no disgrace for a man to be turned on to step in front of an army and inspire the people with a song."

"There is music in the air, music all around us, the world is full of it and you simply take as much as you require."

"I always said God was against art and I still believe it."