In the American composer Charles Ives's time (1874-1954) the holiday we celebrate on Monday was known as Decoration Day. It was a time to remember men and women in uniform who died in service to their country. Today, we call it Memorial Day and, though both its date and scope have changed over time, its central meaning remains strong. At virtually every crossroad town from sea to sea, there will be old soldiers, flags, a speech or two, and prayers. These events will take place at memorial walls bearing the names of the honored dead. Invariably, the audiences will be small, but firmly dedicated to the idea that the nation will always remember the cost of freedom.
Ives captures much of the historic character of this day in his composition, Holiday Symphony, Section II, "Decoration Day." The piece has a number of familiar tunes but you may not recognize them without a guide. Like the holiday itself, Ives give us rich, complex, and contemplative moments in time and space.
I hope you experience Decoration/Memorial Day to its fullest, that is, with remembrance and celebration.
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