The Alma Mater

The Latin phrase "alma mater" means "nourishing mother." The WU Alma Mater is sung at commencement, which is the first and last time it is ever heard by most students.  Two students, in 1907, were the source of the lyrics of the Alma Mater.

The tune is originally a folk tune from Thuringia which passed over into many other cultures and languages.  For example, there is a Maori song,  Moe Moi e Hine, set to the same tune but with words of a more sombre sentiment:

        "Sleep well, O loved one, on your long bed of Death.
        Under the red-flame vine I will weep, disconsolate and bereft.
        May the Almighty guard you and keep you always."

(You can hear Kiri Te Kanawa sing it on her CD Maori Songs.)