I have loved Elgar’s music for as long as I can remember (Enigma Variations, Pomp and Circumstance Marches) so to have any opportunity to celebrate his life and music would be wonderful.

So, in 2011 I took a minibus of Beaudesert musicians to Elgar’s Birthplace in Broadheath, Worcestershire (now called ‘The Firs’) and we played a concert to the public in the Carice Room. Having grabbed fish and chips we drove to the Malvern Hills. Pupils, parents and dogs all climbed the Beacon where, at the summit, I hoisted the Union Flag (on my washing line pole) and the assembled ensemble played ‘Land of Hope and Glory’… and the sun shone. What a glorious day that was!! (For photos of the amazing day please click HERE.)