In the United States the tune is sometimes known as `` Pomp and Circumstance '' or as `` The Graduation March '' , and is played as the processional tune at high school and college graduation ceremonies , . In the United States , the Trio section `` Land of Hope and Glory '' of March No. 1 is sometimes known simply as `` Pomp and Circumstance '' or as `` The Graduation March '' , and is played as the processional tune at virtually all high school and college graduation ceremonies .