.

.

England - National Anthem

.

England National Anthem England Links.

There is always some emotive debate about England's national anthem. The so called 'traditional' anthem is believed to be God save the Queen by many mistaken people - this is of course the UK or British anthem. The official anthem, declared by the true blood English, is "Land of Hope and Glory". Below are the words of the Land of Hope and Glory chorus.

.

Although the words of the chorus remain the same, their appears to be some variations in the other verses. Because of this, only the chorus is shown on this page. The words are by Arthur C Benson (1862 - 1925), who wrote them in close collaboration with the composer, Edward Elgar (1857 - 1934).

In 1901 Elgar produced the first two of his five 'Pomp and Circumstance' Marches, and it is the central theme of his Pomp and Circumstance March that provides the superb tune to these words. Elgar wrote some really great tunes, and he always knew when he was on to a winner.

The tune was so much appreciated by Edward VII that Elgar was commissioned to compose a work for the coronation of the king, later to be known as the 'Coronation Ode'. The tune was adapted into this Ode, and this resulted in the song 'Land of Hope and Glory'. The Coronation Ode was finished in April 1902, and assured Elgar of a knighthood, in 1904. The Ode was also performed at the coronation of King George V in 1911.

.

.

.

Question

Why do we always play the United Kingdom national anthem, 'God Save the Queen', at international matches  when the England football team are playing instead of the England national anthem 'Land of Hope and Glory'? Can anyone supply me with an answer (sensible please!)

.

.

.

.

z The Sandland Experience 2006