Liberty March

J. Frank Frysinger (1878–1964) was an American organist who was a student of Ralph Kinder (American) and William Wolstenholme (English).

Most of his career was centered in Pennsylvania and Illinois, although he worked in Nevada as well.

He composed about 20 organ works, some of which were very popular in his day.

"Liberty March" was published in by Theodore Presser Co. (Philadelphia) in 1918, so it's either during World War One, or just after the conclusion.

The work is dedicated: "To Mr. Clarence Eddy." Clarence Eddy (1851-1937) had been a pupil of Guilmant, and was considered one of the great American organists of his time.

Frysinger's "Liberty March" is based upon three themes, which, while they "work together" musically, seem to be an odd choice to me.

The first theme is the "main melody" in the Advent anthem, "Prepare ye the way of the Lord," by the famous English organist, George M. Garrett (1834-1897), who was organist of Winchester Cathedral and then of St. John's College, Cambridge.

The second theme is referred to as "Red, White & Blue" by Frysinger, but most Americans will now this as "Columbia, the Gem of the Ocean," which was composed around 1843, and was an unofficial American national anthem for quite a long time.

The third theme is the hymn, "Onward, Christian Soldiers," composed by the English composer, Sir Arthur Sullivan (1842-1900).

After a fanfare-like opening, we first hear Garrett's "Prepare ye the way of the Lord," followed by a quiet and clever combination of the "Hail, Columbia" and "Onward Christian Soliders." This is followed by a return of the Garrett melody, and finally a big pedal variation based upon the Sullivan hymn.

The effect is all grandiose and triumphant, but I think you will agree that it's an "odd combination" of themes. Still, the final outcome is a jubilant one!

The score is attached below, as well as photos of Frysinger, Eddy, Garrett, and Sullivan!

God Bless America - and let Freedom ring!

Peace to All!