ABSTRACT
Following the United States’ annexation of Texas in 1845 and a subsequent dispute with Mexico over the location of the border between Mexico and Texas, the United States and Mexico went to war in 1846. Regiments in the US Army during the Mexican-American War (1846-1848) traveled with musicians, who provided entertainment off the battlefield and directives during combat. These ensembles resembled those from earlier wars, although they included more brass as well as keyed instruments. The war also inspired the composition and publication of numerous musical works on topics related to the conflict, marketed toward amateurs at home. These works reflect American values during the middle of the nineteenth century, when the country was pushing westward and expanding its influence. They also provide commentary on conflicts back home, most notably, the debate over slavery. This repertoire includes rousing war songs, vocal laments, battle pieces, and patriotic dances. Works include remembrances of specific battles, including Buena Vista, Vera Cruz, Monterey, and Palo Alto, tributes to military heroes, especially Gen. Taylor, and personal tales related to historical events. Performed chiefly by amateur musicians, the majority of whom would have been women, these pieces sought to foster feelings of patriotism, pride, and sympathy in their performers and listeners. Meanwhile, as amateurs performed these pieces in the domestic setting, the Hutchinson Family Singers, the most popular musical act in America during the 1840s, wrote and performed a song opposing the war, using music as a vehicle for political protest.
