WASHINGTON — Tenor Christopher Macchio is set to perform the national anthem at President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration, although he will be facing a significantly smaller audience than anticipated due to an unfortunate shift in the event’s location. The ceremony will now take place indoors in the Capitol Rotunda, which can only accommodate 600 attendees, a stark contrast to the over 250,000 individuals who had planned to gather outside on the Capitol grounds. The decision to move indoors is largely because the temperatures are expected to drop, making it the coldest inauguration in four decades.
“I was excited about the prospect of performing in front of 100,000 people along the National Mall,” Macchio, 46, shared in an interview. “While it’s disappointing not to experience that, it remains an incredible honor to sing at the inauguration.” He added that from a musical perspective, the change in venue may be beneficial, as performing in extreme weather can be detrimental for vocalists.
Macchio’s relationship with Trump began around nine years ago when he stepped in on short notice for a New Year’s Eve event. His performance was well-received, leading Trump to invite him to sing at his 70th birthday celebration that same evening. The tenor also sang at a White House memorial in 2020 for Trump’s brother Robert, which solidified their connection further.
The tenor has had a busy schedule, performing at notable events such as the Republican National Convention and various Trump rallies, including one in Butler, Pennsylvania, which occurred a few months after an assassination attempt in the vicinity. Following his performance in Butler, Trump told Macchio, “I’ll be seeing you at the inauguration,” although he did not elaborate then. Shortly after, Macchio received confirmation from a Trump aide that he was the “first and only choice” to sing at the event.
Inauguration performances have previously featured renowned artists; for example, Lady Gaga sang the anthem for Joe Biden, while Beyoncé performed at Barack Obama’s second inauguration. At Trump’s initial inauguration, “America’s Got Talent” star Jackie Evancho took the stage. Macchio is aware that opinions concerning his long-standing affiliation with Trump may vary, but he hopes that even those who did not vote for him can enjoy the music.
“For those who might have opposing views politically, I’m hopeful they will take a moment to appreciate the performance and connect with the music,” he expressed. “This performance is intended to honor our great country.” Macchio is also looking to support classical music education and is in discussions about how he might contribute more officially within the incoming administration.
With the inauguration just around the corner, Macchio has plans to meet with fellow performers, including Carrie Underwood and Lee Greenwood, for rehearsals in the Capitol Rotunda. “I consider myself a traditionalist,” he noted. “My approach will be a straightforward rendition of the anthem, with the only exception being my inclination to showcase a bit more flair during the high notes.”
