Replace National Anthem with 60 seconds of Elgar

We have also inherited a “song” that celebrates an individual representing the country rather than a celebration of the nation itself, unlike most other countries. This is not an anti-royalist view, just an anti-bad music view. Having a head of state who is non-political sits well with me, especially as the New Year’s Honours List is being drawn up.

I remember Billy Connolly remarking how uninspiring the National Anthem was and that instead we should use the theme tune from Radio 4’s The Archers to inject some zest into our anthem. Mind you I think he was wearing giant banana shoes at the time.

So from a poor musical knowledge can I suggest some Elgar. An obvious choice would be Edward Elgar’s Pomp and Circumstance No. 1, but without the words that were added later. I understand Elgar was not that keen on the lyrics of what we now know as Land of Hope and Glory. They may be a little too demonstrative for a lot of people’s taste and there is the temptation that when played everyone would sing along.

So how about an orchestral piece which would allow the individual to interpret the music as they feel fit? Elgar’s Enigma Variations, part 9, Nimrod. Although the piece was written to represent an individual I am sure Elgar would not mind it being used to represent the nation. It could be rearranged as a one-minute piece to uplift, inspire and allow sporting fixtures to start a bit quicker.

Peter Steggles, Longnor