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A Song of Democracy
by Howard Hanson
Howard Hanson was a champion for the musical education of young people. Composed for young people to perform, A Song For Democracy combines with Walt Whitman's text to produce a lively work with a youthful spirit that is remarkable, given the age of both artists when the lines were written. Hanson and Whitman share a love for the past and a hopeful view for the future. There is an invigorating tone of optimism, idealism, and exuberance in both the words and music that cannot be missed.
The musical means are simple, clear, and direct. A line like "Sail, Sail thy best, Ship of Democracy, of value is thy freight" becomes exciting and expressive. Throughout the work, climaxes develop and gain momentum in a way that seems natural and instinctive.
A Song for Democracy will boost anyone's spirit with hope for the future of America!
Lyrics
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