Elgar, Sir Edward

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Elgar, Sir Edward (1857–1934) English composer. His individual style is first evident in his set of 14 orchestral variations, the Enigma Variations (1899). Elgar's oratario, The Dream of Gerontius (1900), established him as a leading European composer. Other works include a violin concerto (1910), a cello concerto (1919) and two symphonies. His third symphony was completed (1998) by Anthony Payne. Elgar is perhaps best-known for the patriotic piece “Land of Hope and Glory”, one of the five Pomp and Circumstance marches (1901–30).

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