County lawmaker suggests contest for new Pennsylvania state song
Representative Joe Ciresi recently advanced a proposal in Harrisburg to introduce a new state song for Pennsylvania to align with the upcoming 250th anniversary of America. Ciresi highlighted the promotional potential of state songs like “I Love New York” and “Georgia on My Mind” in boosting tourism, emphasizing the absence of a similarly resonant anthem for Pennsylvania. During a recent session with the House Commerce Committee, Ciresi attempted to lead members in a rendition of Pennsylvania’s current state song, revealing a lack of familiarity among participants.
Recognizing the opportunity to create a new song that encapsulates the beauty and attractions of the Commonwealth, Ciresi unveiled his resolution that would establish a contest akin to American Idol. This initiative would invite submissions from individuals statewide, ultimately crowning a victor to be announced as part of the Semiquincentennial festivities in July 2026. While State Rep. Russ Diamond has independently crafted and recorded a song for consideration, he expressed a willingness to support the adoption of other submissions should the opportunity arise.
In a parallel effort, State Senator Judy Schwank introduced a bill proposing “Our Pennsylvania Home” by Dave Kline, a musician from her constituency in Berks County, as the new state song. Despite the varying approaches to song selection, any final decision would necessitate approval from the General Assembly. The diverse proposals put forth by legislators indicate a shared commitment to reimagining Pennsylvania’s musical representation, showcasing the state’s unique characteristics and heritage through a fresh, contemporary lens.
As discussions surrounding the state song continue to evolve, the prospects of a revamped anthem reflective of Pennsylvania’s cultural richness and historical significance grow increasingly promising. The active engagement of lawmakers and the broader community in this endeavor underscores the significance of this initiative in redefining Pennsylvania’s musical identity. By leveraging the creativity and talent of constituents across the state, Pennsylvania stands poised to unveil a new emblematic composition that encapsulates the essence and spirit of the Commonwealth as it embarks on this transformative musical journey.