The Crown of India March has been extracted from the elaborate theatrical presentation, a masque, originally including twelve pieces, staged in 1912 to celebrate the visit the preceding December of King George V and Queen Mary to Delhi for their coronation as Emperor and Empress of India. Stately and regal in style, the march includes an optional part for three herald trumpets to add to the festivity. The music displays a richness of imagination and orchestration that is, perhaps, unique in Elgar's music.