As Thanksgiving approaches, music lovers can find a rich selection of songs about thanksgiving to set the perfect holiday mood. This year, classical music stations and new album releases are offering unique ways to celebrate the spirit of gratitude and kinship through sound.
WRTI, a classical music broadcaster, is presenting a special Thanksgiving program that runs from early morning to evening. Starting at 6 a.m. and continuing until 6 p.m. Eastern Time, listeners can enjoy a carefully curated mix of American classics and warm, home-inspired pieces. The broadcast honors traditions such as the Temple University Diamond Marching Band’s centennial appearance in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, including themes like “Fight, Temple, Fight!” and “T for Temple U.”
Morning segments feature lively and evocative compositions such as Leonard Bernstein’s “Turkey Trot” from his Divertimento, Vivaldi’s Autumn movement from The Four Seasons, and Aaron Copland’s Quiet City. These selections create an inviting atmosphere for preparing the Thanksgiving meal while celebrating the season’s beauty. Later in the day, Melinda Whiting hosts a collection of stirring performances including Jessye Norman’s rendition of Amazing Grace with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and George Gershwin’s Piano Concerto performed by Xiayin Wang alongside the Royal Scottish National Orchestra.
The afternoon brings more thematic programming focused on gratitude and reflection. Andrea Blain’s “Every Good Thing” hour features classical works such as Beethoven’s Piano Sonata No. 15 and Mahler’s Symphony No. 8, blending stories and music that echo the warmth of holiday gatherings. Following this, Jennifer Hambrick explores America’s connection to the land with pieces like Randall Thompson’s “The Pasture” from Frostiana and Jennifer Higdon’s uplifting string quartet version of Amazing Grace.
The broadcast concludes with “Songs of Thanks,” performed by the vocal ensemble Cantus. This final hour offers listeners a musical journey celebrating community and thankfulness, perfectly closing a day dedicated to reflection and togetherness.
Complementing these classical offerings is Vi Wickam’s recently released “The Thanksgiving Album,” which provides a fresh take on songs about thanksgiving through bluegrass, swing, roots, and folk styles. Colorado-based fiddler Vi Wickam brings soul, humor, and love into nine original tracks that feel both festive and deeply personal. Highlights include “Another Fine Day for Thanksgiving,” with its Celtic flair, and “Welcome At the Table,” a heartfelt invitation to share kindness without expectation.
The album stands out for focusing on Thanksgiving rather than Christmas, giving voice to a holiday less frequently celebrated in song but rich in meaning. Each track offers a unique story or mood that complements the spirit of the season—whether it is the joyful melodies evoking home or somber reflections on community.
Together, WRTI’s classical broadcast and Vi Wickam’s album provide diverse musical landscapes that honor Thanksgiving’s themes of gratitude, family, and harvest celebration. These offerings invite audiences to enjoy songs about thanksgiving that enrich both traditional observances and contemporary experiences.
