Here you'll find some covers from the songs and music of the North, culled, as with the Southern songs, from the marvelous LEVY SHEET MUSIC COLLECTION. These covers were chosen based on our interest in them. You may wish to explore the Levy site to discover some more wonders. The Union pubishers seemed to have available more color and, in the case of some of the satirical songs at the bottom of this page, more willingness to be critical, even on an international level. Two of the songs "Our Neutral Friend" and "Dixie's Nurse" are aimed at the British. The first shows John Bull, and the second may well be plump Queen Victoria in the role of a black Britannia (Other interpertations are sought--let us know what you think. But go to the site and check out the song before deciding). The Confederates had a measure of support from the French and it shows up in some of their songs. Then there is the topical "Wanted, A Subsitute" which refers to the practice of the well-to-do hiring a poorer person to serve in the army in his stead. Note the haggard face on the left: the fellow who has to go.
It should be mentioned that some of the stirring battle songs from both sides hide real tragedy behind the cheerful tunes. "Marching Through Georgia" may have been a triumph for the Union, but it was a bloody disaster for the people who were in the line of the march. One of the reasons music has been such an important element in war is that, like hymns, it excites the soul--from the ancient drum and animal horn to all Sousa could throw at us. And, at home, the pop songs from "Yankee Doodle" to the Andrews Sisters promoted the cause. It is interesting that of late, music has not been a significant part of our military endeavors. Perhaps rap doesn't stir the same way!
Some of the songs were sung by both sides and rather arbitrarily ended up here. Sharing songs is discussed a bit more thoroughly on the Southern page.
It is also rather surprising that so many of these songs are suitable for dancing. The Two-step can be danced to a March and Polkas, Waltzes and other dances are common. African-Americans (freedmen and slaves) seem to be more represented in the Northern music than in the Southern music we perused. Although the typical offensive caricature can be found, it is more often done to make a point. See "Contraband," a cheery Schottische to dance to while recalling the cartoon of the black men being chased by a Simon Legree character! The "Hymn to the Freedman" showing black soldiers is far more suitable!
Once again, a reminder: If you want to download any of these covers, right click your mouse and save to your own file. |
