1606-1776: The Colonial Era
American music in the Colonial Era originated in Europe and reflected the daily life of the colonists: Church, military, folk songs, theater, dance, and opera.
The Bay Psalm Book , the first book written and printed in the Colonies, was a collection of religious Psalters used for over 100 years. Historical information and words to several Psalms.
Whiskey in the Jar , a traditional Celtic folk song favored in the 18th century. Lyrics, chords, and music download.
Soldier, Soldier Will You Marry Me? , a popular Colonial America military song that originated in England. Lyrics and MP3 download.
Nursery Rhymes , often set to music, dating back to Europe and brought to America. List of nursery rhymes with words and some audio files.
Greensleeves , often attributed to Henry VIII, was a popular love song. Lyrics.
1776-1860: Revolutionary War /Post-Colonial Era
Revolutionary War era music centered on patriotic songs and fife and drum marches.
Yankee Doodle , originally a parody of Colonial soldiers, adopted as America's own song. Background, lyrics, and midi file.
Star-Spangled Banner , the United States National Anthem, composed during the War of 1812 by Francis Scott Key. Lyrics and historical information.
Rock of Ages composed in England in 1776 and set to music in 1830 by
Thomas Hastings in Connecticut. Lyrics, piano score, and midi files for piano, organ and bells.
1860-1900: Civil War / Reconstruction Eras
Music of the Civil War era was comprised of patriotic songs, soldiering songs, and emancipation songs.
Battle Hymn of the Republic , a hymn with a marching beat written by Julia Howe in 1861, during the Civil War. Background information and lyrics.
John Brown's Body , 1860 marching song about John Brown's anti-slavery rebellion at Harper's Ferry, VA. Historical information and three versions of lyrics.
Mary Had a Little Lamb , a nursery song written by Sarah Josepha Hale in 1830. Lyrics.
Negro Spirituals , gospel songs inspired by African music, sung as work songs or field songs. Lyrics of many songs arranged alphabetically.
I've Been Working on the Railroad , a popular work song about building the railroad. Lyrics, history, and midi file.
Maple Leaf Rag , a ragtime piano piece composed by Scott Joplin in 1899. Biographical information with link to midi files of this and other songs.
The Stars and Stripes Forever , a march written by John Philip Sousa that became our National March. Historical information, MP3 and midi files, and lyrics.
Oh, My Darling Clementine , a forty-niner song about the California Gold Rush. Lyrics and midi file link.
Gilbert & Sullivan , opera composers of the late 19th century. Comprehensive collection of operas, an index of works, and background information