Apotheosis Diverse / Arr. Sammy Nestico

Sammy Nestico created this medley of patriotic songs while he was the arranger for the U.S. Marine Band in 1968. Included are The Marines' Hymn, Battle Hymn of the Republic, and ceremonial fanfares.


The Marines' Hymn is one of the most readily recognized songs and is the oldest of the country's service songs. The history of the hymn has been clouded by the passing of time and confused by oral tradition. There is no confusion, however, on the part of the hearer when The Marines' Hymn is performed: it is as easily identified with the United States Marine Corps as The Star Spangled Banner is with the nation. To all Marines, it has become a sacred symbol of pride, professionalism, and esprit de corps. Marines stand tall at the position of attention when the hymn is performed.

The setting by former Marine Band arranger Sammy Nestico presents the hymn as an apotheosis, the most elevated and exalted setting of the music imaginable. It begins with a strong introduction which ends with a brief reference to the bugle call Taps. Following a quiet and unadorned statement of the melody, the arrangement grows in intensity until it becomes a glorious and dramatic declaration of the sacred music, fitting to resound even in Heaven's scenes where the streets are guarded by United States Marines.

Movements
1. Battle hymn of the republic / William Steffe 3:45
2. Marines hymn / L.Z. Phillips 2:00
3. Ceremonial fanfares / Sammy Nestico 1:00