THE IOWA CORN SONG

This arrangement of The Iowa Corn Song was commissioned as YELLOW in the “Colors Concert” by the New Hampton Middle School bands (IA) under the direction of Jenny Adam.

PROGRAM NOTES

The Iowa Corn song was created by the state’s Shriners in 1912, who heard other states’ songs at a Shriner convention in Los Angeles. They decided Iowa should have a rousing march of their own. Des Moines Chamber of Commerce secretary George Chambers wrote the lyrics and set it to the tune “Travelling” by George Botsford that year (1912). It was first published in 1921.

PERFORMANCE NOTES

This arrangement utilizes an ultra-flexible format. All instruments see a grand staff of three parts: 1) melody, 2) harmonized accompaniment [divisi], and 3) bass line. This means it will sound complete with a full concert band, yet is easily adaptable for any size chamber group or soloist.

First-year students can play this song, especially if accompanied by older students. Wind parts never go above Concert Bb, and there are always Parts 2 & 3 to play (which are lower). There is also a basic and an advanced percussion part.

The Iowa Corn Song is a great introduction to 6/8 time for developing bands. There are only a few different rhythmic patterns, and songs with catchy lyrics tend to be easier to learn. 

Speaking of lyrics, those are provided in Part 1. The score set also includes a lyrics sheet to copy and hand out to audience members. 

I hope you enjoy learning and performing The Iowa Corn Song!