Hey, 2020 graduates. COVID-19 restrictions mean you won’t have your school band on the football field or in the auditorium to play the traditional “Pomp and Circumstance” as you get your diploma.
So, how about the next best thing for whatever graduation ceremony you plan from home or your backyard? How about the graduation anthem performed by the Minnesota Orchestra?
Minnesota Orchestra music director Osmo Vanska and the musicians have audio and video versions of Edward Elgar’s “Pomp and Circumstance” march for use in virtual graduation ceremonies. The famous march composed in 1902 was recorded by orchestra members in their homes over the past month. It’s available for public use in virtual commencement ceremonies.
“We recognize that the graduating class of 2020 is missing the traditional in-person ceremony this year, and we are humbled to be able to share this music for all who would like to include it in their virtual celebrations,” Vanska said in a news release.
The recording can be found on the Minnesota Orchestra’s website at minnesotaorchestra.org/pomp-and-circumstance-download. An online registration is required and then the files and instructions for use are sent to your email.