President Obama addressed the nation following his swearing-in during the presidential inauguration ceremony. In his address he spoke about the themes of sacrifice and renewal, calling on Americans to set aside differences and join in efforts to restore government and make America prosperous for all citizens.
The president was sworn-in by Chief Justice John Roberts. The ceremony also included the swearing-in of Vice President Biden by Associate Justice John Paul Stevens. The invocation was given by Rick Warren and the benediction by Joseph Lowery. Aretha Franklin sang “My Country 'Tis of Thee.” Itzhak Perlman, Yo-Yo Ma, Gabriela Montreo, and Anthony McGill played music composed by John Williams for the occasion. Elizabeth Alexander recited a poem she wrote especially for the Obama inaugural.