Composer

:

Eric Bogle

Genre

:

Miscellaneous

Style

:

Miscellaneous

Average_duration

:

5:53

"And the Band Played Waltzing Matilda" is a powerful anti-war song composed by Scottish-Australian singer-songwriter Eric Bogle. The song was written in 1971 and first performed in 1972. It has since become one of the most iconic anti-war songs of all time. The song is a tribute to the soldiers who fought and died in the Gallipoli campaign during World War I. The lyrics tell the story of a young Australian soldier who is sent to fight in the war and is ultimately wounded and left to die on the battlefield. The soldier reflects on the horrors of war and the senseless loss of life that it brings. The song is composed of three distinct movements. The first movement sets the scene and introduces the soldier and his journey to war. The second movement describes the horrors of the battlefield and the senseless loss of life that occurs. The third movement is a reflection on the soldier's experience and the impact that it has had on his life. The song is characterized by its haunting melody and powerful lyrics. The use of the waltz rhythm adds to the poignancy of the song, as it creates a sense of nostalgia and loss. The lyrics are deeply emotional and convey a sense of sadness and despair at the futility of war. The song has been covered by numerous artists over the years, including The Pogues, Joan Baez, and Liam Clancy. It has become a staple of anti-war protests and is often played at Anzac Day ceremonies in Australia and New Zealand. Overall, "And the Band Played Waltzing Matilda" is a powerful and moving tribute to the soldiers who fought and died in the Gallipoli campaign. Its haunting melody and powerful lyrics have made it one of the most iconic anti-war songs of all time.

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