There’s something about playing patriotic music on a Sunday morning in July that just hits differently. I remember the first time I played ‘God Bless the USA’ at the church I grew up in in Pensacola, Florida (Olive Baptist Church). I’ll never forget it.

As brass players, we don’t just play notes—we declare. We lift up the melodies that echo through generations, stirring hearts and honoring the sacrifices made for our freedom. It’s powerful. It’s emotional. And it’s an opportunity for the church to come together—not just in worship—but in gratitude for this country and the people who gave their all for it.

Why Patriotic Sundays Matter

Sure, we sing hymns every week. But there’s something unique about those early July services where “America the Beautiful” or “Battle Hymn of the Republic” fills the room. These moments don’t just celebrate patriotism—they remind us of God’s hand over our nation’s history and His ongoing presence in our future.

And when brass is involved? It’s unforgettable.

How to Plan It Well

Here are a few things I’ve learned over the years when helping churches plan patriotic services that work—spiritually and musically:

1. Open With a Strong Statement

Start your service with a musical prelude that sets the tone. Something bold. Something familiar.
🎺 “The Star-Spangled Banner” is always a strong opener, especially when done with brass. You could even have the congregation stand as a moment of reflection before launching into worship.

2. Honor and Remember

Consider incorporating a moment in the service to recognize those who have served—or lost their lives—in the military. Music is a great companion to this moment.
🎶 “God of Our Fathers” is rich in heritage and reverence. It pairs beautifully with prayer or a Scripture reading focused on sacrifice, courage, and freedom.

3. Include Congregational Favorites

Don’t underestimate the power of the congregation singing along with brass leading the way.
🗽 “America the Beautiful” is one of those songs where the harmony and message seem to carry extra weight when wrapped in a warm brass sound.

4. Close with Conviction

Wrap the service with something triumphant that sends people out with gratitude and joy.
🎺 “My Country, ’Tis of Thee” or “Battle Hymn of the Republic” (with a strong ending) makes a great final musical benediction.

The Power of Brass

I’ve played patriotic music in a lot of settings—inside sanctuaries, outside under tents, in parades and picnics. But there’s just something sacred about playing it in church. It feels like a thank-you note to those who paid the price for freedom and a prayer that we would steward that freedom well.

And for those of us who have ever played “Taps” on a trumpet at a graveside or memorial, we know—it’s more than just music. It’s a moment of deep reverence. You feel the weight of it. The honor. The responsibility. I remember feeling that weight firsthand, playing Taps aboard the USS Alabama one Memorial Day during college, standing in front of a large group of veterans. It’s a moment I’ll never forget. Because somehow, through just a few notes, we’re helping tell a story that must never be forgotten.

That’s why I believe patriotic brass music in worship matters. It moves people. It honors those who served. And it lifts up the truth that ultimate freedom comes from the Lord.

If you’re looking for arrangements to make your Patriotic Sunday truly memorable, I put together a full set of brass quintet arrangements in The Master’s Brass Quintet Series – Volume 5 (Patriotic). Every piece is crafted to sound full and rich with just five players, and they’re accessible for rehearsals even with limited time.

🎧 Click below to listen to each arrangement and hear how they might fit into your service:
👉 Master’s Brass Quintet Volume 5 – Patriotic Series

And if you’ve already got your Patriotic Sunday service fully planned, Volume 5 also makes the perfect pre-service instrumental music—the kind that welcomes people in, sets the tone, and reminds them this service is something special.

Let’s Make This July One to Remember

Whether your church is large or small, including a brass quintet in your Patriotic Sunday service does more than just add a powerful sound—it gives more people the opportunity to use their musical gifts in worship.

And at the heart of AnderKamp Music, that’s really what it’s all about: creating meaningful, high-quality arrangements that allow instrumentalists to serve the church and honor the Lord with their talents.

So this July, as you celebrate freedom and faith, consider how a simple group of five brass players can help your congregation reflect, rejoice, and remember in a powerful way.

🎧 Click below to listen to the arrangements and start planning your service:
👉 Master’s Brass Quintet Volume 5 – Patriotic Series

Let the music speak—and let your musicians lead.

For more information about The Master’s Brass Quintet Series – Volume 5 – Patriotic, click here