Patriotic Music
Patriotic Music from the Mormon Tabernacle Choir
For centuries artists have been inspired or commissioned to create patriotic songs that invoke pride and a strong sense of connection to a cause. From patriotic songs like “My Country, 'Tis of Thee” of the United States to the United Kingdom’s “God Save The Queen/King” (both actually the same melody), history is rich with patriotic music that reflects the struggles and triumphs of people and country.
Patriotic music has been a staple in the repertoire of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir since the very beginning. From its GRAMMY Award-winning performance of "Battle Hymn of the Republic" to proudly singing "The Star-Spangled Banner," the Choir has earned its reputation as "America's Choir." In this role, the Choir has sung at presidential inaugurations, state funerals, and more.
Special Patriotic Songs
Battle Hymn of the Republic »
On This Day »
My Country, 'Tis of Thee »
This Land Is Your Land »
America the Beautiful »
Patriotic Choir Music Online Sources
The Story Behind "Battle Hymn of the Republic"
Julia Ward Howe wrote the lyrics to "Battle Hymn of the Republic" in 1861. In the video below, her great-great-great-grandson discusses the history behind the song and its place in our country's lore.
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The History of "God Bless America"
From Kate Smith to New York City’s “singing cop,” Daniel Rodriguez, “God Bless America” has had a variety of renditions over the years. Irving Berlin originally wrote the song in 1918 while he served in the U.S. Army, but he revised it in 1938 to become a song about peace rather than victory. Watch the Choir sing the song in the patriotic music video below.
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Facts About "This Land Is Your Land"
“This Land Is Your Land” has stood the test of time as one of America’s most famous folk songs. Written by Woody Guthrie in 1940, the song was based on an existing melody and went through a number of lyrical changes over the years. Listen to the Choir perform the song below.
Why Is the Mormon Tabernacle Choir called "America's Choir"?
President Reagan was the first to refer to the Choir as “America’s Choir.” He went on to say, “At my first inauguration as President of the United States, I wanted very much to reignite the fires of liberty and re-inspire the American spirit. And no one sings the anthems of America quite like the Mormon Tabernacle Choir.”
Reagan continued, “The Choir’s singing was a highlight of our inauguration, as we knew it would be. I’m sure I speak for all Americans when I say thank you for saying so well what all of us feel about this land of the free and home of the brave. There is no more inspirational moment for any American—and that includes Ronald Reagan—than to hear the Mormon Tabernacle Choir sing ‘Glory, glory, hallelujah, His truth is marching on.’"
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