November 11. On the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918 (Paris time), the Armistice went into effect that formalized Allied victory and the end of WWI.
In 1954, at the urging of U.S. veterans, Armistice Day was renamed Veterans Day. Though the intent of the holiday is frequently confused with that of Memorial Day, Veterans Day is a time to honor all military veterans, not just those who died in service to their country.
This afternoon on The Classical Network, we’ll honor several composers who served – including Samuel Barber, whose Second Symphony and “Commando March” were dedicated to the U.S. Army Air Forces – alongside other musical salutes.
We’ll also celebrate conductors Ernest Ansermet and Vernon Handley on their birthdays and remember Werner Andreas Albert, who died yesterday at the age of 84.
In addition, there will be a Cello Sonata in E-flat major by Bernhard Romberg, born on this date in 1767, performed by the late Anner Bylsma.
Join me on this 11th day of the 11th month, from 1600 to 1900 (4 to 7 p.m. EST), on WWFM – The Classical Network and wwfm.org.
PHOTOS: (counterclockwise from top) Corporal Samuel Barber, U.S. Army Air Force; John Philip Sousa in his Marine Band uniform; Sergeant Romeo Cascarino conducting an Army orchestra; and William Grant Still, U.S. Navy