“America, America, God shed His Grace on thee. And crown thy good with brotherhood, from sea to shining sea”

If you recognized the above as part of the patriotic song “ America the Beautiful,” then you are correct and on track!

On track to what, you might ask?

On track to being a part of “A Patriotic Program of Music,” to be presented 2 p.m. Sunday inside the beautiful sanctuary of First Presbyterian Church of Natchez.

The program will consist of me, playing their awesome Yamaha piano, leading those attending through a short afternoon of songs dealing with this great nation of ours: America.

You will be treated to such standard old gems as “I’m A Yankee Doodle Dandy,” “You’re A Grand Old Flag” and “Over There,” all penned by the legendary George M. Cohan, himself a true believer in the American Spirit.

How about some pieces that have worked their way into our hearts, such as the afore-mentioned “America the Beautiful” and the powerful song written by Irving Berlin “God Bless America,” introduced to the world by the talented Kate Smith.

“This Land Is Your Land” surely will pop up, along with a little history of the song itself.

In fact, I plan on bringing a lot of these works “ to life,” by explaining the origins of the songs, and what inspired the composers to write them.

It will not be a dull history lesson, though. No indeed, for time is precious and I want us to be involved with the music in a very personal way.

Just how personal, you might ask?

You will be encouraged to sing to any and all of them.

Song sheets will be provided, and you may take them home with you to study and reflect on the patriotic messages that each contains.

Not to be left out, there will be an opportunity for those who have served our country to be recognized, as each branch of the Armed Forces will be represented in song. For the Marines: “The Halls of Montezuma.”

The Air Force has “Off We Go,” while the Army is represented with “The Caissons Go Rolling Along.” Let’s not forget the Navy! “Anchors Away” is their rallying song, and a great one it is.

You can see, it will be quite a bit of singing, and singing is good for your health.

As usual, you never know what surprises may be in store, unless you attend.

We have such beautiful patriotic songs, and I really want to encourage you to join us, and bring a friend, or two, or even three. Bring the kids, and let them hear these great songs they may not have ever heard.

So, are we “on” for 2 p.m. Sunday? I hope so!

The price of admission is your participation.

Mark your calendars and note the venue: First Presbyterian Church in downtown Natchez.

BURNLEY COOK of Natchez is a local musician, piano tuner and restorer.