Edward Elgar Popular Song Rankings [2026]

The Dream of GerontiusEdward Elgar36rank/position

Elgar: The Dream of Gerontius [Barbirolli] Janet Baker, Richard Lewis, Kim Borg

This is an oratorio composed by the British composer Edward Elgar, famous for orchestral works such as Pomp and Circumstance and Salut d’Amour.

It is also rendered as The Dream of Gerontius, and was inspired by the long poem The Dream of Gerontius, which Elgar received from a cardinal when he married at the age of 32.

While many of Elgar’s orchestral works—epitomized by Pomp and Circumstance—are notably strict and brisk, this oratorio is grand and romantic.

At its premiere, audiences had expected a Handelian oratorio, and many were surprised by Elgar’s new approach.

However, some critics, including Bernard Shaw, recognized The Dream of Gerontius as a masterpiece, praising its mystery and lyricism, effective choral writing, vivid musical imagery, and noble spirituality.

SketchEdward Elgar37rank/position

Edward Elgar: Skizze

Edward Elgar was a British composer active from the late 19th to the early 20th century, known for masterpieces such as Pomp and Circumstance.

Among his piano works, one of the most striking is Sketch.

Composed in 1901 and dedicated to a friend of Elgar’s, this piece exemplifies a romantic style, characterized by concise melodies and emotive performance.

It conveys deep feeling inspired by the composer’s love of nature and the landscapes of his homeland.

Sketch has also been used as background music in films and television dramas and is highly regarded by classical music enthusiasts.

Its delicate, wistful melody makes it a recommended piece for anyone who wants to savor the beauty of music.

In SmyrnaEdward Elgar38rank/position

Edward Elgar: “In Smyrna” (1905) (Luca Moscardi, piano)

A gem where you can hear Elgar’s piano infused with exotic color.

The English composer Edward Elgar is widely known for orchestral works like Pomp and Circumstance and the Enigma Variations, but in fact he didn’t write many pieces for piano.

Among those few, a particularly unusual one is In Smyrna, inspired during his travels around the Mediterranean.

While it carries an Oriental flavor, it also showcases Elgar’s distinctive musical voice, resulting in a romantic, finely crafted piece.

It’s a travel-evoking work I’d love even those who don’t usually listen to classical music to savor.

SerenadeEdward Elgar39rank/position

Serenade – Edward Elgar

Edward Elgar is one of Britain’s foremost composers and created famous works such as Pomp and Circumstance.

Among his chamber pieces, the Serenade for Strings is a celebrated work noted for its graceful, poetic melodies.

Comprising three movements, this piece is known as one of Elgar’s early masterpieces and offers glimpses into various facets of his style.

In particular, the deeply expressive melody of the second movement appeals to listeners’ hearts and has long been cherished as a classic of the repertoire.

The Serenade is a highly recommended piece for anyone wishing to savor the beauty of string ensemble music.

Sonatina in G majorEdward Elgar40rank/position

Edward Elgar: Sonatine G-Dur

Elgar is renowned as a national composer of Britain and is known for masterpieces such as Pomp and Circumstance.

Among his works, the relatively lesser-known piano piece Sonatina in G major stands out.

Comprising two movements, this piece was dedicated to Elgar’s niece and reflects characteristics of his early style.

The first movement is notable for its elegant, refined melody, while the second captivates with lively, rhythmic motion.

Offering a more approachable side than his large-scale orchestral works, this piece is one I would recommend to those beginning their piano studies.