The “Dedication Hymn,” has been sung off and on since the 1930s. The beloved school hymn emphasizes gratitude for “all of those who’ve gone before us.” For reasons unknown, the song was lost for a period of time until a curious alumnus from the class of 1937 inquired about it. After some searching, the lyrics were found. With little to go on, the Upper School Choral Music Director at the time, Philip Olsen, created an arrangement that included harmonies, counterpoint, and good voice leading. It debuted at Commencement in 1991 and has been a part of the ceremony ever since.
It was the Dedication Hymn that lifted the school’s heart when the COVID-19 pandemic forced McDonogh’s campus to close. Middle School Vocal Music Director Suzanne Eldridge, knowing the healing power of music, felt that something must be done to help the community feel connected despite being quarantined. Almost 100 students and alumni submitted recordings of themselves singing the hymn. The videos were stitched together for the McDonogh Virtual Choir performance of the Dedication Hymn.
The Dedication Hymn is typically performed at the Dedication Day ceremony in the fall and at Commencement when current students and alumni are invited to join in the singing.
