Beethoven (Remix)

Just when you thought Wellington’s Victory (1813) couldn’t get any better, it does. As previously noted, Part I of this piece contains a quote of “For He’s a Jolly Good Fellow.”

The new development relates to Part II: Victory Symphony. If you listen carefully, it is possible to hear the melody of “My Country, ‘Tis of Thee.” [Technically, we should refer to this song as the British National Anthem, “God Save the King/Queen.” According to wikipedia, the lyrics for My Country, ‘Tis of Thee hadn’t been written until 1831.] It is quite cool. I've got the CD if you want to borrow it.

Personally, I think the story went something like this: Britain/Spain/Portugal just beat France in this battle and they asked Beethoven to write a little something commemorative. Beethoven was probably really busy working on one of his symphonies, but didn’t want to say no. So he threw together a couple “pop songs” with some trumpet fanfare and a little percussion. And the peasants rejoiced.