Hymn To The Fallen

Hymn to the Fallen

While not a traditional hymn, John Williams wrote “Hymn To The Fallen” for the movie “Saving Private Ryan.” It was William’s desire to honor the real-life soldiers who fought and died in World War II—not just to underscore a film. He chose to write a non-verbal “funeral hymn” that could stand on its own as a tribute to fallen soldiers.

He wanted to produce a hymn that was subdued, sacred, and dignified; something that would convey the overwhelming feeling of loss and sacrifice that permeates a place like the Normandy cemetery.

Williams chose to include a choral work sung in Latin to give it a sacred feel. He also chose to employ a children’s choir to signal purity, innocence, and the future generations bought by the soldiers’ sacrifice.

The decision to retain the Latin lyrics allowed the music to speak directly to the emotions rather than the intellect while the slow tempos, minor harmonies, and use of lower brass and strings evoke mourning and reverence.

“Hymn to the Fallen” has risen to a special stature of intense respect at both military and sacred gatherings. It is frequently used at military funerals and Memorial Day services as well as special events at Arlington National Cemetery.

Williams has said that he thought of his work as a wordless prayer—a quiet offering of gratitude and sorrow on behalf of a nation. What he accomplished was to write a piece of music that does not sound so much like a movie score, but like something that could be sung in a church or at a graveside as a tribute to the those who gave their lives for their country.

Psalms 116:15

“Precious in the sight of the LORD

Is the death of His godly ones.”