What does the phrase “anvil chorus” mean and Where does it come from?

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Karen Hill

The collective critical comments of those opposing any measure, political or otherwise; as, “Any proposal made by Franklin Roosevelt met with a resounding anvil chorus of Republican senators.”

The term has a musical background, referring originally to the cacophony of anvils or cymbals and timpani beaten rhythmically in the accompaniment of the so-called “Anvil Chorus,” based on the “Gipsy Song” in Verdi’s Il Trovatore.

This familiar chorus runs:

Proudly our banner now gleams with golden luster!
Brighter each star shines in the glorious cluster!
Hail, liberty forevermore!
And Peace and Union
And Peace and Union
Throughout our happy land.

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