Proud Of Our Veterans

We have published a number of pieces over the years which we feel are appropriate for use in conjunction with Veterans Day. (Refer to your printed Music K-8 Indexes or our web site - MusicK8.com - for more information.) However, this is the first time we have published and recorded a song that is specifically for veterans only. In recent history there has been a welcome resurgence of recognition for these citizens who have given so much of themselves for the good of their country.

The song "Proud Of Our Veterans" is both poignant and anthem-like. The first time through, it is marked "legato," and has only strings, piano, solo trumpet, and chimes as an accompaniment on the recording. Students should sing smoothly at a dynamic level of mezzo forte. At measure 13, a snare drum enters and the piece crescendos. By the first ending, the entire orchestra has entered and the style has changed. When students re-enter at measure 5, they should sing "marcato" this time and at a dynamic level of forte (which is technically a continuation of their dynamic level from measure 15).

While the song is written in two parts, the second part is optional. But it is a natural harmony and should not be too difficult to learn, should you decide you would like to incorporate it.

During the last few measures of the song, we have suggested that you let students turn to face the veterans in the audience and salute them. This is optional, of course, but the impact may be worth it.