Civil War Music
Discover the rich and diverse music of the Civil War era and explore how music shaped the experiences and morale of those on the frontlines and the home front alike.
Explore Music
Music in the 18th Century Army
Music in 18th-century armies was incredibly important to tactics, drills, maneuvers, and esprit de corps. The incorporation of music into the great...
Battle of the Bands
From Revolution to Civil War, music has provided an outlet for American soldiers in camp and propelled them forward in battle. Lyrics were often...
Civil War Music: God Will Defend the Right
This song was written by an unnamed lady of Richmond in 1861 in defiance against the North
Civil War Music: Just Before the Battle, Mother
This song by George F. Root was popular during the Civil War.
"Music in Camp"
"Music in Camp" by John Reuben Thomas (1823-1873) Two armies covered hill and plain, Where Rappahannock's waters Ran deeply crimsoned with the stain...
Echoes of Courage: Folk Music’s Ties to America's Wars
Did you know that many of your classic childhood songs have historical roots? Nostalgic tunes such as “Yankee Doodle” and “Home on the Range” are not...
Listen to our Civil War Playlist
More About Music
- Civil War Music: When Johnny Comes Marching Home Again »
- On the Homefront »
- Civil War Music: The Rebel Soldier »
- Civil War Music: Eatin' Goober Peas »
- Civil War Music: God Save the South »
- Civil War Music: God Will Defend the Right »
- Civil War Music: May God Save the Union »
- "Music in Camp" »
- Analyze Music of the Civil War Era »
- Civil War Music: Tramp, Tramp, Tramp »
- Civil War Music: Home, Sweet Home »
- Civil War Music: Just Before the Battle, Mother »
- Civil War Music: The Battle Cry of Freedom (Southern Version) »