Sir Edward William Elgar, 1st Baronet OM, GCVO (2 June 1857 - 23 February 1934) was the most famous English composer of his time. He composed in the late romantic era.

Elgar was born in Broadheath, Worcestershire. His father owned a music shop. Apart from having violin lessons Elgar taught himself about music. He studied the printed music in his father’s shop and often travelled with him when he went on his rounds to tune pianos. He heard a lot of cathedral music and often practised the organ. He took over his father’s job as church organist and soon became conductor of local orchestras and bands.