The Washington Post

Grade Level 4

Year: 2020

Composer: John Philip Sousa, arr. Nick Simmons-Smith

Program Notes:

Jesus Christ was victorious over death, giving us irrefutable proof that He was the Son of God and is the reason why Easter has been celebrated with such joy for generations of Christians around the world. That joy can be expressed in many ways, including the singing of wonderful songs as we praise and worship our Lord and Savior. 

This medley uses three classic Easter songs that so beautifully capture the triumph of Christ’s Resurrection. It is arranged in an upbeat and rhythmic manner, intended to portray the joy of this most important celebration. That joy is expressed so well in verse 2 of “Crown Him with Many Crowns,” the final song of this arrangement: 

Crown Him the Lord of life, 

Who triumphed o'er the grave, 

And rose victorious in the strife 

For those He came to save; 

His glories now we sing 

Who died, and rose on high, 

Who died eternal life to bring 

And lives that death may die.

American Instrumental Ensemble Series (AIES/ABES)