Why did pomp and circumstance become the graduation song by Edward Elgar?

Answer 1

An excellent question. What is played at graduation ceremonies is actually the trio (middle section) of Pomp and Circumstance #1 by Edward Elgar. The beginning and end are much livelier. I suspect it became so popular for graduations because it is relatively easy to play, and it is beautifully solemn.

Answer 2

"Pomp and Circumstance" or as "The Graduation March", and is played as the processional tune at virtually all high school and college graduation ceremonies. It was first played at such a ceremony on 28 June 1905, at Yale University, where the Professor of Music Samuel Sanford had invited his friend Elgar to attend commencement and receive an honorary Doctorate of Music. Elgar accepted, and Sanford made certain he was the star of the proceedings, engaging the New Haven Symphony Orchestra, the College Choir, the Glee Club, the music faculty members, and New York musicians to perform two parts from Elgar's oratorio The Light of Life and, as the graduates and officials marched out, "Pomp and Circumstance" March No. 1. Elgar repaid the compliment by dedicating the Introduction and Allegroto Sanford later that year.The tune soon became de rigueur at American graduations, used primarily as a processional at the opening of the ceremony (although it is still used now only as a recessional at Yale)