Variations on a Revolutionary Hymn

Commissioned and premiered in 1987 by the U.S. Army Field Band, this was Claude T. Smith’s last completed work, written to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the U.S. Constitution. Based on the hymn tune Resignation (How Firm a Foundation), this is a mature work by the celebrated American bandmaster, displaying the technical capabilities of each section of the wind band. A bold concert statement and a fitting commentary on the founding fathers whose faith and determination launched the great American Experiment.