  | |
Personal anthem of the president of the United States | |
| Lyrics | Albert Gamse |
|---|---|
| Music | James Sanderson, 1812 |
| Published | May 8, 1812 |
| Adopted | 1954 |
| Audio sample | |
Four ruffles and flourishes followed by "Hail to the Chief" (as would be played for the U.S. president), played by the U.S. Navy Band's ceremonial band | |
"Hail to the Chief" is a piece originally about a boat in Scotland, but today it is best known as the personal anthem of the president of the United States, adapted by James Sanderson from an original Scottish Gaelic melody.[1][2]
The song's playing accompanies the appearance of the president of the United States at many public events; it is also played at inauguration ceremonies.[3] For major official occasions, the United States Marine Band and other military ensembles are generally the performers, so directives of the United States Department of Defense have, since 1954, been the main basis for according it official status.[4] It is preceded by four ruffles and flourishes when played for the president. The song is also played during a former President's state funeral after the casket is removed from the hearse.[5] As it originated in the 19th century, the song is in the public domain due to its age.
- ^ Golby, David J. "Sanderson, James". Oxford Dictionary of National Biography (online ed.). Oxford University Press. doi:10.1093/ref:odnb/24625. (Subscription or UK public library membership required.)
- ^ Robert A. Nowlan, Ph.D. (31 January 2016). The American Presidents From Polk to Hayes: What They Did, What They Said & What Was Said About Them. Outskirts Press. p. 63. ISBN 978-1-4787-6572-1.
- ^ Hauser, Christine (2017-01-20). "'Hail to the Chief': The Musical Strains of Presidential Power". The New York Times. ISSN 0362-4331. Retrieved 2019-01-07.
- ^ "Hail to the chief" in Library of Congress Manuscripts/Mixed Materials
- ^ "President George H.W. Bush U.S. Capitol Arrival Ceremony | C-SPAN.org". C-span.org. Retrieved 4 January 2021.