March On Bahamaland

This arrangement of the National Anthem of the Bahamas arose from two hearts that overflowed with a patriotic and abiding love of their homeland. Inspired by the majestic and wistful strains of the Anthem, Bahamaland, they were moved to add their distinct musical voice to the chorus of compatriots. The arrangers aspired to retain the stately and resplendent qualities of the Anthem, although appending it their unique expressions. However, essential elements such as the key signature, melody, and rhythm are retained. Yet, the reharmonizations found at key textual, phrasal, and cadential points provide an exciting variation. In addition to use of contrary and oblique motions, "text-painting" is also used to underscore key words found in the text. In the opening phrase, for example, the scripturally- similar words "Lift Your Head" is emphasized as an opening declaration, which embodies the essential message of the Anthem. Additional textual points such as "march on", "world", "pledge to excel", "onward", "together", and "loftier goal" were also highlighted to resonate with the stirring poetic and music sentiments expressed in the Anthem. This A capella arrangement can also be performed with piano or organ accompaniment. Because the Anthem and this arrangement are through-composed, it may be easily adapted for other instrumental arrangements such as Brass, Strings and even Orchestra. Antonia N. Wilson Dr. Jerome Symonette