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The Sounds of War: Singing, Soldiering, and Sheet Music in America During the First World War

Billy Peterson

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When the United States entered the First World War in 1917, the country was ill-prepared for the conflict. The Army was small and underfunded, and the country had no experience with modern warfare. But one thing that the United States did have was a wealth of musical talent.

Singing, Soldiering, and Sheet Music in America during the First World War

by Elissa Schappell

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	101047 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	231 pages

Music played a vital role in the American experience during the First World War. Soldiers sang songs to boost their morale, they listened to music to relax and escape the horrors of war, and they even used music to help heal their wounds.

One of the most popular songs of the war was "Over There," written by George M. Cohan. The song was a call to arms, and it quickly became a favorite of soldiers and civilians alike. Other popular songs included "The Star-Spangled Banner," "America the Beautiful," and "When Johnny Comes Marching Home." These songs helped to create a sense of unity and patriotism among Americans, and they gave soldiers a way to express their feelings about the war.

In addition to singing, soldiers also listened to music to relax and escape the horrors of war. Many soldiers brought their own music collections with them to the front lines, and they often listened to music while they were in the trenches or on leave. Music provided soldiers with a way to escape the violence and chaos of war, and it helped them to maintain their sanity.

Music was also used to help heal wounded soldiers. Music therapy was first developed during the First World War, and it was found to be an effective way to help soldiers recover from their physical and emotional wounds. Music therapy helped soldiers to reduce their pain, improve their mood, and cope with the trauma of war.

The First World War was a difficult and challenging time for the United States, but music played a vital role in helping the country get through the war. Music provided soldiers with a way to boost their morale, relax and escape the horrors of war, and heal their wounds. Music was a powerful force in the American experience during the First World War, and it continues to play an important role in the lives of Americans today.