Land of Hope and Glory

England's green and pleasant lands are the subject of this veritable feast of British classics from the San Antonio Symphony. Including works from Vaughan Williams, Walton and Elgar, you'll soon be able to spot any Brits in the audience as their stirring works are likely to bring a tear or two to any who hail from the sceptered isles of the United Kingdom.

Program

Vaughan Williams: Overture to The Wasps
Bright and energetic, Vaughan Williams composed this vibrant work in 1909 for a play by Aristophanes being staged at Cambridge University.
Walton: Crown Imperial: Coronation March
Created for the coronation of Edward VIII, it was hastily repurposed for the coronation of his brother George VI following the former's abdication. Initially criticized, it is now looked on as an homage to Elgar and was performed at the coronation of George's daughter: Queen Elizabeth II.
Beethoven: Concerto No.2 in B-flat major for Piano and Orchestra, Op. 19
Not strictly from Britain, Beethoven's display piece evokes the traditions and grandeur of an English country house as captured by many a period drama.
Elgar: Variations on an Original Theme, Op. 36, "Enigma Variations"
Including the highly emotional Nimrod, Elgar's Enigma Variations is a work of staggering beauty that features today as a solemn memorial piece that induces chills in any listener.
Elgar: Pomp and Circumstance, March No. 1 in D major, Op. 39
With a title taken from Othello, Elgar's Pomp and Circumstance remains one of his most popular works across the pond. The song from it's Trio, Land of Hope and Glory is one of three contenders for the British National Anthem, next to God Save The Queen and Jerusalem.