Orchestra Patriotic Arrangements Friday, July 09, 2021
recommended by Megan W., Orchestra Specialist
8 Patriotic Picks
An Armed Forces Tribute arr. Andrew H. Dabczynski, Grade 3
For the first time, string orchestras can honor our servicemen and women with their own patriotic Armed Forces Tribute. In this up-beat and lively intermediate-level arrangement, stirring melodies are provided for all string sections. The signature marches of the five branches of the armed forces are presented with strong and clever counter-melodies. Crisp and rhythmically interesting accompaniments and a variety of meters and keys add good, usable educational concepts. “An Armed Forces Tribute” will complete any string orchestra concert program, and offers a chance for audience participation as veterans and their families are recognized. It’s sure to be a hit with students of all abilities, and a heart-warming winner with every audience. Titles include: “Marine’s Hymn,” “U.S. Air Force,” “Caisson Song (Army),” “Semper Paratus (Coast Guard)” and “Anchors Aweigh (Navy),” all framed by “America the Beautiful.”
Caissons Go Rolling Along arr. Bob Cerulli, Grade 2
A patriotic classic for any concert to honor our Army veterans. Set at a level achievable for young players, this piece will also work for older groups with little rehearsal.
Freedom Overture arr. John Caponegro, Grade 2.5
This medley of seven patriotic tunes contains excellent material for concert performances and celebrations. The accelerando and ritards leading to/from tempo changes demand that players watch the conductor carefully. The piece closes out fast and strong, and use of the optional percussion part for snare and bass drums will contribute to the patriotic mood.
Lift Every Voice and Sing arr. Bob Phillips, Grade 2.5
Often referred to as the African-American National Anthem, the poem, written in honor of Booker T. Washington, and original hymn-like music of this piece reverberate through the decades of the civil rights movement. This setting teaching 6/8 and chromatic alterations in first position combined with optional vocals and cross-curricular programming possibilities.
The Marines’ Hymn arr. Bob Cerulli, Grade 2
This stirring, patriotic classic is sure to become a go-to piece in your library as it introduces basic march style in 2/4 and provides teaching opportunities such as high 2/low 2 in the upper strings, precise double sixteenth pickups (like brass double tonguing!) and a solid bass line while the melody moves around the orchestra.
A Patriotic Medley arr. Jerry Brubaker, Grade 2.5
Play with pride! A fresh new treatment of beloved patriotic melodies that is both sophisticated and elegant, yet very playable for young strings. Sure to become a standard in your library, featuring “America,” “America the Beautiful” and “The Star-Spangled Banner.”
Stars and Stripes Forever by John Philip Sousa/arr. Andrew Dabczynski, Grade 2.5
Few American melodies stir the soul of patriotism like John Philip Sousa’s master march, “The Stars and Stripes Forever.” In this faithful arrangement, the entire intermediate string orchestra can literally “strike up the band” with Sousa’s great melodies and well-known counter-melodies. The famous piccolo solo has been modified to be easily playable by an optional violin solo or section (extending just to third position, with harmonics). This arrangement is guaranteed to bring the audience to their feet, and leave your students feeling tall and proud.
The Star-Spangled Banner arr. Charles “Bud” Caputo, Grade 2
Here is a very playable, but solid arrangement in the string-friendly key of D of America’s National Anthem. It should be in every school’s orchestra library.
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About the Author:
Megan W., originally from Pittsburgh PA, is happy to call Columbus and Stanton’s Sheet Music “Home.” As a musician, Megan has played in marching and concert bands, youth orchestras, full orchestras, small ensembles, and a few choirs. Her interests include fiddling, reading, writing, martial arts and yoga.