NEW! Patriotic Piano Solo
Growing up in the Christian Reformed denomination, it was never a tradition to sing or play patriotic music in church. That is not the case in the church that I play at now. No, they don’t talk politics but, they do honor their service men and women in worship services around Memorial Day and Veterans Day and even holidays like the Fourth of July.
So, this has led me to years of searching for patriotic arrangements and back in 2013, I finally created my own. Six years later (2019), "Let Freedom Ring" is now notated with a few additions and tweaks. I’m happy to share this "rhapsody" with those looking for a unique arrangement for church services, a patriotic event, a recital, or a special tribute to veterans and service men and women.
About the tune
Although the lyrics were written by Samuel Francis, it’s hard to nail down the origin of the tune called “America” that most know in the States as “My Country ’Tis of Thee.”
Sample page
For late intermediate and advancing pianist
It was printed in England in 1744 in the tune book Thesaurus Musicus. Since then, the melody has been used as national anthems in several countries including Britain’s “God Save the Queen.”
About the cover art: Eight years ago I took my first trip to New York and finally met Lady Liberty in person. The sky was a spectacular blue that day and crowned every photo with royalty.
About the arrangement
An interlude, featured throughout the piece, borrows the opening motive of another patriotic tune, “America the Beautiful” which complements this rhapsodic setting of “My Country ’Tis of Thee.”
The arrangement is titled “Let Freedom Ring” because that phrase is highlighted and augmented throughout. And, it also echoes one of my favorite performances of any patriotic tune that inspired my arrangement. It’s sung by Crosby, Stills and Nash with Michael Hedges on guitar. I found a short video--see below.
Get "Let Freedom Ring" here
Click on the links below for your digital sheet music on sale through July 4, 2019!
Single license
Studio license
Here’s to celebrating the freedom we enjoy every day thanks to the sacrificial service of countless men and women!
