Composer

:

Edward Elgar

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Compose Date

:

1920

Average_duration

:

7:31

'With Proud Thanksgiving' is a choral work composed by Edward Elgar in 1919. It was written to commemorate the end of World War I and to honor the soldiers who lost their lives in the conflict. The piece was premiered on November 6, 1919, at the Royal Albert Hall in London, conducted by the composer himself. The work is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct character. The first movement, titled "Introduction," is a slow and somber piece that sets the tone for the entire work. It features a mournful melody played by the strings, which is then taken up by the choir. The movement ends with a powerful climax, as the choir sings the words "We will remember them" in unison. The second movement, titled "For the Fallen," is a setting of Laurence Binyon's famous poem of the same name. It begins with a solo trumpet playing a haunting melody, which is then joined by the choir. The music is solemn and reflective, with Elgar's use of harmony and counterpoint adding depth and complexity to the piece. The movement ends with a quiet and peaceful coda, as the choir sings the words "At the going down of the sun and in the morning, we will remember them." The final movement, titled "A Thanksgiving," is a joyful and celebratory piece that expresses gratitude for the end of the war. It features a lively and energetic melody played by the orchestra, which is then taken up by the choir. The music is full of optimism and hope, with Elgar's use of brass and percussion adding a sense of grandeur and majesty to the piece. The movement ends with a triumphant climax, as the choir sings the words "God save the King" in unison. Overall, 'With Proud Thanksgiving' is a powerful and moving work that captures the emotions of a nation at the end of a devastating war. Elgar's use of melody, harmony, and counterpoint creates a rich and complex musical tapestry that is both beautiful and poignant. The work remains a popular choice for Remembrance Day services and other commemorative events.

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