Dirge

“Dirge”, by Francis Johnson (1792-1844)

One of the major sources of employment for Johnson’s band was providing music for the many militia units in Philadelphia. These organizations served a similar function to today’s National Guard, and also functioned as fraternal societies, often for the social elites. “Dirge” was composed for a trip to Mount Vernon in honor of Washington’s 100th Birthday, a rare excursion for Johnson’s all black band below the Mason-Dixon line. Sometimes also called “Centennial Dirge”, the music was played at Washington’s grave site. Years later, it was played at Johnson’s own funeral. The short, but eloquent, piece is a rare example of a dirge in a major key.

The E♭ and B♭ trumpet parts in this orchestration would have been played by keyed bugles, with Johnson himself on the E♭ part. It will sound fine with trumpets on these parts, but if instruments are available, E♭ and B♭ cornets would be somewhat closer to the original sound.