program notes by composition > A > America the Beautiful
America, The Beautiful
Samuel Augustus Ward/arr. Carmen Dragon
America the Beautiful is one of the most beloved and popular of American patriotic songs. From time to time it has been proposed as a replacement for the National Anthem.
Its lyrics were originally published as a poem in 1875 by English professor Katharine Lee Bates who was inspired by the sights of her country during a summer trip to Pikes Peak.
The melody was composed in 1882 by organist Samuel Ward as a tune for the old hymn “Oh Mother Dear Jerusalem”; he received his inspira- tion during a summertime ferry ride from Coney Island.
This arrangement for concert band was made by Hollywood Bowl Symphony Orchestra conductor Carmen Dragon (1914-1984).
Last updated on June 22, 2023 by Palatine Concert Band