Song Description

The song begins in a slow tempo with trumpets playing the main anthem in their extreme low register. Some snare drums begin a cadence and, after a measure or two, the woodwinds assist suggesting a slow and methodical building of tension until the main anthem is played again by the brass ensemble at a faster tempo. Woodwinds play a supporting counter melody. Now the anthem is stronger suggesting majesty and overcoming challenges. Next, the strings take the piece in a more mellow and tranquil direction suggesting pride born from the original theme. The original theme returns, first performed by the woodwinds, doubled by string staccatos to amplify its anthem like characteristic. The 2nd theme returns again championed by the strings. As the theme develops it builds and builds with the brass and woodwinds joining the cause. Again, this 2nd theme conveys feelings of pride and dignity. These feelings are reinforced as the snares return and bring the theme to its ultimate climax. As this theme concludes, the flutes lightly reintroduce the first theme which then explodes as the ensemble repeats it to its conclusion