Between the Lines: Crossing the U.S.A. by Mary Donnelly & George L. O. Strid

Crossing the U.S.A.

All aboard! Don't miss this action-packed, 2.5-minute American folk medley of four familiar favorites. Kid-friendly voice parts, a bouncy supportive accompaniment, and an irresistible train ride theme create the ultimate journey from east to west! Don't leave the station without a whistle and some costume conductor hats. Fun!

What inspired you to write this piece?

While on a train ride, we were inspired to write Crossing the U.S.A. by the vast expanse of our country and its beautiful and varied landscape.

How will this piece encourage musical growth?

The piece will introduce students to some traditional American folk songs (even though we have changed some of the words); this can be a jumping-off point for students to learn more of our country’s wealth of folk music. There are several dynamic markings in the song. This is an opportunity for students to review/learn dynamic markings and how these affect mood in music. This is also the case for tempo markings.

What performance suggestions do you have?

Have students pay attention to tempo changes and dynamics. The first part of “Red River Valley” at m. 35–41 could be sung as a solo with the full choir joining in at m. 43. Call students’ attention to the meter change at m. 68 and then again at m. 86. The song is lighthearted and full of life. Teachers and students should reflect this mood in their performance.

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Mary Donnelly

Mary Donnelly was born and raised in Reno, Nevada. She earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree from the University of Nevada, Reno, with a double major in English and French. While still a college student, she helped organize two children's choruses and enjoyed it so much that she decided to go back to school and become certified in teaching music. Mary is currently retired, having taught general music and choir in elementary and middle school for thirty years in the Washoe County School District (Reno, Nevada). She is a member of ACDA, NEA, and ASCAP. In 1985, Mary met George Strid while team-teaching a sixth-grade general music class. They have been working together ever since and have written over two hundred songs and twenty-five musicals.

Learn more about Mary and see a full list of her Alfred Music publications here .

George L. O. Strid

George L. O. Strid was born and raised in Oregon. He graduated from Oregon College of Education and then went on to obtain master’s degrees in composition and music education from Western Oregon State College. George is currently retired after teaching vocal music at the middle school level for 38 years. He is a member of ASCAP, ACDA, NEA, and MENC. George has been writing songs and musicals for over 30 years with his writing partner, Mary Donnelly.

Learn more about George and see a full list of his Alfred Music publications here .