Abraham Lincoln Tribute - The Piano Guys (Official Video)

“Abraham Lincoln Tribute” piano & cello song from The Piano Guys.

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Story Behind the Song

When I was a kid our family vacations were seldom a remote beach or a big city. Instead, we’d vacation in Gettysburg! Or Independence Hall. Why? My Dad LOVED history. He wanted us to learn and love it so much that he’d print out homespun quizzes for us to sleuth out while at a historical site with a promised reward of a prize to whoever could get a “passing grade.” I remember running from place to place at each site we’d visit, seeking out the people who were dressed up like they were from history itself. They always knew the answers. I promised to share my candy prize with them in exchange for their services. I admit, at the time, I didn’t fully appreciate what my dad was trying to do for me. But now, I recognize the value in a father striving to instill in his son a love for the salient events of yesterday that allow us to enjoy the freedoms of today.

When the American Museum of American Religion asked if we’d compose a piece of music for their exhibit surrounding Abraham Lincoln and some of his story, my father would never forgive me if I were to say no!

I love Abraham Lincoln. I love his powerful, authentic style, his courage, his humility in giving the glory to God, and his tenacity in striving for what is right.

He loved the song “Battle Hymn of the Republic” — it was written to encourage men and women to volunteer to stand and fight for the union of the nation and the freedom of all humankind. When Lincoln first heard the piece performed with full orchestra and choir, he stood and wept, halting the concert for a personal request to hear it once more.

The most powerful line in the hymn, “As He died to make men holy, let us live to make men free,” truly inspires me.

I wanted to write a very different arrangement of this hymn. Typically it is performed in grand fashion, with powerful voices, brass and crashing cymbals. I wanted, instead, to represent the pensive nature of President Lincoln, his deeply spiritual side – the part of him that found a way to draw strength again and again from a wellspring of resilience leading America during the most divisive time of its history. The part of him that ached when he lost his son.

What to listen for in the piece:
How many key changes do you hear? This represents the dramatic changes occurring in the 1860’s.
When the melody of the hymn is presented in a minor key, opposite of its original setting, I hope you can imagine the pain Lincoln felt as he lost his sweet boy Willie, at 11 years old, right in the middle of the civil war. This event nearly destroyed Lincoln, but instead galvanized his faith and determination to see the principles of freedom through. Can you also hear a fragment of another famous hymn that was written around the same time?

SPECIAL THANKS:
We would like to thank THIS IS THE PLACE HERITAGE PARK for generously hosting our music video. They rolled out the red carpet for us and were so kind to open their incredible venue to us. If you are anywhere near Utah, this place MUST go on your bucket list.

“Battle Hymn of the Republic” written by: Julia Ward Howe (1865)
“Nearer My God to Thee” (Traditional)
Arrangement and original material written by: Steven Sharp Nelson
Produced by: Al van der Beek & Steven Sharp Nelson
Recorded at: TPG Studios, Utah
Mixed and Mastered by: Al van der Beek
Jon Schmidt: Piano
Steven Sharp Nelson: Cello, keyboards, percussion
Filming and Editing: Nick Sales

About The Piano Guys:
Paul, a Yamaha dealer who dabbled in videography, Jon, a professional pianist, Al, a music producer and studio engineer, and Steve, a cellist with a creative superpower called ADHD, all serendipitously joined forces to create the most successful YouTube instrumental music group in history.

#AbrahamLincolnTribute #Piano #Cello #ThePianoGuys

[neilkruse]

Greatest president of all time, and it isn't even close. He had the stones to take on and destroy the peculiar institution of slavery, and in doing so he saved America's very soul. Even after 157-years, we should still be grateful to President Lincoln. A wonderful leader, a fantastic republican, and an incredible man.

[Stardweller]

Not a perfect man by any means, but certainly a good one. Best President this country ever had. I will die on that hill.

[krusekids]

Greatest president in American history, and to be honest it isn't even close. Lincoln almost single-handedly saved the union from destruction, took America through its darkest time as a nation, and in the process saved its very soul by destroying the peculiar institution and liberating countless millions. A hero of the United States like none other.

[rdean]

I live in the Land of Lincoln (Illinois). In fact, Lincoln gave speeches in my small city.

[elisabethball]

Beautiful celebration of American history. You don’t see that much these days.

[mikewangler]

100th Anniversary of the Lincoln Memorial is just a few days away. Thank You for this - from the heart of every American - Thank You. 'In the beauty of the lilies Christ was born across the sea... as he died to make men holy let us live to make men free..' We need this music so much now.

[PrinceAlhorian]

I wish my own country (South Africa) had patriotism like this. I have tried many times to get a green card for me and my wife, and many times failed. I pray that your country will see past their cultural and political biases of this current age and embrace the rich, painful and remarkable history you all share there in the states. Don't let the shining example of the world be marred with petty squabbles, if America falls, there is nowhere else for those who seek escape to go.

God Bless you...
God Bless South Africa
God Bless America

And may He have mercy on our souls.

[lizzykitten]

Beautiful music for a gentleman that I hope will always be viewed as a good man, President Lincoln. God bless Piano Guys 💗 and America, the Beautiful 🇺🇸

[christianheinz]

Even though many people today are slowly starting to forget history, I hope that we will never forget "Honest Abe." A brave man who fought for what he believed in. A man who believed that all men are created equal. A true hero. Bravo Piano Guys. This is a real masterpiece.

[dylanpatterson]

Keep adding light to an ever darkening world.

[ThatCatMan]

Abraham Lincoln, my name is Abraham Lincoln, and there’s a million things I haven’t done, but just you wait, just you wait.

[CommandGeek]

The music, the cinematography… absolutely stunning. Words cannot do it justice. I can only dream of playing as beautifully as this one day :)

[AfricanVulture]

Seriously, this is the loveliest tribute I’ve ever heard. Like you, I made two tributes to Abraham Lincoln as well. He was a brave kind man and president.

[nesaclark]

Absolutely stunning! Made me think of my grandfather sharing stories about his great grandfather and grandfather who raised him. Their experiences in the Civil War. God was gracious and spared their lives!

[YvonneBurggraaf-]

Honestly? I thought I'd lost you forever. And it's not a big deal, but now I know you are a part of my lives.

[thecelloguy]

I can't wait to hear it! Whenever you guys post it makes my day. I am currently learning to play the cello because you inspired me Steven! I heard you guys playing and I thought you myself, I hear a piano, but what is that other thing?!? Turns out it was something that changed my life. I play in an orchestra and next year I am going to be first cello. I can't wait to see where this instrument brings me next, and all of it is because of you and your music. The next part of my life I cannot see, but I know that I will do it with my cello. ❤️❤️❤️

[joeannbeckham]

So Beautiful 😇😘Glory...Glory Hallelujah 🦁💕 Blessings to ALL 😇💕

[noahhuckaby]

Two of my favorite hymns combined in a wonderful tribute to Abraham Lincoln. They should play it on his birthday in the Lincoln memorial. Absolutely well done. 🫡

[bernicegerman]

Thank you for honoring such a great President, reminding us of his inspired and unselfish leadership. Your timing is wonderful.

[c.erine]

Abraham Lincoln was fascinating and inspiring to me as a child. When I finally learned to read, I loved to read and re-read his biography. This is a beautiful tribute to him. Thank you!