Described by the composer as "sketches for orchestra" Alma Mater was completed on May 31, 1954, a revision of "Harvard Sketches" which was written in 1939. It is 6 minutes and 10 seconds long. It was first performed with the composer conducting the Boston Pops on June 14, 1954 (Harvard Night at the Pops, the 25th reunion of Anderson's class - see "Harvard Fantasy" listing). First recorded on June 30, 1988, in digital stereo sound, with Newton Wayland conducting the Rochester Pops.
It has four movements:
Chapel Bells (1:30 long)
Freshman on Main Street (1:15 long)
Library Reading Room (1:50 long)
Class Reunion (1:35 long)