About The American Presidents by Genevieve Madeline Ryan
The origin of the “American Presidents” is somewhat unique. One year, Genevieve’s father asked her to memorize the order of the Presidents of the United States for Father’s Day. As she did, she began to come up with rhymes to help her remember each President. After sharing this method with her family, they told her that many children in the United Kingdom are taught a poem to help them learn the order of the Kings and Queens. Genevieve decided to write a similar poem with the goal of teaching the Presidents to American children.
As the project grew from a simple poem into a more elaborate musical piece, Genevieve turned to those around her for guidance and assistance on the project. She contacted Hugh Sidey, the late Presidential historian and White House correspondent, to whom this song is dedicated, for help with historical accuracy. Next, she contacted Leonard Slatkin, the conductor for the National Symphony Orchestra at the time, regarding musicality. Finally, Jim Kessler helped arrange the piece and take it from a simple melody to a full musical composition. The song has been professionally recorded and is now available for Americans of every age to learn more about the highest office of this wonderful country.
Genevieve writes: This song is dedicated to Hugh Sidey, my close mentor and friend and the “Historian to the Presidents.” May his devotion and love for the Presidency inspire America’s youth for years to come.
Genevieve lives in Potomac, Maryland and attends Princeton University.
