Composer

:

Patrick S. Gilmore

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song

Compose Date

:

1863

Average_duration

:

2:16

"When Johnny Comes Marching Home" is a popular American patriotic song that was composed by Patrick S. Gilmore during the American Civil War. The song was first published in 1863 and quickly became a popular tune among both Union and Confederate soldiers. The song's premiere is not well-documented, but it is believed to have been performed by Gilmore's band, the 24th Massachusetts Infantry Band, during a parade in Boston in 1863. The song's popularity quickly spread, and it was soon being played by military bands across the country. "When Johnny Comes Marching Home" is a simple, catchy tune that is easy to sing and play. The song is written in 6/8 time and features a simple melody that is repeated throughout the song. The lyrics tell the story of a soldier returning home from war and being welcomed back by his friends and family. The song is divided into three distinct movements. The first movement features the main melody and sets the tone for the rest of the song. The second movement is a slower, more reflective section that features a new melody and lyrics that describe the soldier's experiences during the war. The third movement returns to the main melody and features a rousing chorus that celebrates the soldier's return home. One of the most notable characteristics of "When Johnny Comes Marching Home" is its use of repetition. The main melody is repeated throughout the song, and the chorus is repeated several times as well. This repetition makes the song easy to remember and sing along to, which helped to contribute to its popularity during the Civil War. Overall, "When Johnny Comes Marching Home" is a classic American patriotic song that has stood the test of time. Its catchy melody and simple lyrics have made it a favorite among generations of Americans, and it continues to be played at patriotic events and celebrations to this day.

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