In their life together, Chamberlain and his wife, Fannie, demonstrated a powerful love of music -- a fact which was an inspiration in the writing of the musical. For example, one of Chamberlain's favorite hymns, "Abide With Me," is quoted throughout the piece. The rest of the score is a reflection of the music to which Chamberlain was exposed: popular songs of the era, songs of the Civil War years. Of particular import is the incorporation of the brigade bugle call of the 20th Maine (written by Daniel Butterfield, the composer of "Taps").