Aug 16: 'The Lark Ascending' #2: Elgar and the Malverns

The second in a series of posts linked to Richard King's book 'The Lark Ascending'.

The first chapter of the book mentions Edward Elgar's links to the Malvern Hills. He was born in Broadheath, in the Malvern Hills near Worcester.

The National Trust and other organisations refer to the area as 'Elgar Country' and the National Trust manages 'The Firs' - his birthplace, which can be visited.

As you step into the birthplace cottage of Sir Edward Elgar, in the heart of his ‘beloved country’ between Worcester and the Malvern Hills, you are stepping into a space that inspired and comforted him, his entire life. Stand within the four walls of the humble cottage where he was born and be immersed in a world that Elgar believed already contained music that was there for the taking.

He appeared on the UK £20 note for some years.

There are various walking routes that can be followed which trace walks Elgar himself took - where inspiration was provided for pieces such as 'Land of Hope and Glory'.