National Anthems

The Philippine national anthem, "Lupang Hinirang," typically takes about 1 minute and 10 seconds to sing at a moderate tempo. However, the duration can vary slightly depending on the singer's pace and style. In formal settings, it is often performed in a way that adheres to a respectful tempo.

The pitch name of the song "Lupang Hinirang," the national anthem of the Philippines, is based on the melody composed by Julián Felipe. The anthem is typically played in the key of B-flat major. The lyrics reflect themes of patriotism and love for the country.

The U.S. national anthem, "The Star-Spangled Banner," was written by Francis Scott Key during the War of 1812, specifically after witnessing the British bombardment of Fort McHenry in 1814. Key was inspired by the sight of the American flag still flying after the attack, symbolizing resilience and patriotism. The poem he wrote was later set to music and officially adopted as the national anthem in 1931. This anthem reflects the struggle and determination of Americans during that tumultuous period.

The Polish national anthem, "Mazurek Dąbrowskiego," can be played on the recorder using the notes: B, A, G, A, B, B, A, G, A, G, F#, G. These notes can vary slightly depending on the arrangement, but this provides a basic melody for beginners. It’s advisable to refer to specific sheet music for precise fingerings and rhythms.

Two other popular songs that were considered for the national anthem of the United States are "America the Beautiful" and "My Country, 'Tis of Thee." "America the Beautiful," with its evocative lyrics about the country's landscapes, has been a beloved patriotic song since its publication in the late 19th century. "My Country, 'Tis of Thee," written by Samuel Francis Smith in 1831, was often sung at public events and held significant emotional resonance. Despite their popularity, "The Star-Spangled Banner" ultimately became the official national anthem in 1931.

The controversy surrounding the national anthem, particularly in the United States, primarily revolves around issues of racial injustice and freedom of expression. Protests, notably led by NFL players kneeling during the anthem, have sparked debate about patriotism, respect for the flag, and the right to dissent. Critics argue that these protests disrespect the military and the nation, while supporters claim they are a necessary act to highlight systemic racism and promote social justice. This divide reflects broader societal tensions regarding race, identity, and national values.

In Ayn Rand's "Anthem," society takes several steps to enforce extreme collectivism and suppress individuality. It abolishes personal names, assigning numbers instead, to eliminate personal identity. The government controls all aspects of life, including careers and relationships, promoting the idea that the group is more important than the individual. Education indoctrinates citizens to prioritize the collective over self-interest, ultimately leading to a society devoid of personal freedom and innovation.

The Brazilian national anthem, known as "Hino Nacional Brasileiro," consists of two main stanzas and a chorus. However, it is commonly performed with only the first stanza and the chorus. The anthem features a total of 10 verses, but the complete version is rarely sung in public settings.

Cuba's national anthem is called "La Bayamesa," written by José Martí and composed by Pedro Figueredo in 1868. The anthem reflects the struggle for independence and patriotism, emphasizing themes of freedom and sacrifice. It was officially adopted in 1909 and is performed at national events, symbolizing Cuban national identity and pride. The anthem's stirring melody and powerful lyrics inspire a sense of unity among the Cuban people.

The Sudan National Anthem, "We Will Never Forget," is typically played in the key of C major. The main melody can be transcribed into piano notes starting with C, E, D, C, and following a sequence that includes various intervals. For a complete and accurate representation, it’s best to consult sheet music specifically arranged for the anthem.

The creed in an anthem typically expresses the core beliefs and values of a group, community, or nation. It often emphasizes unity, hope, strength, and commitment to shared ideals. Anthems serve to inspire pride and a sense of belonging among its members. Specific phrases or lines may encapsulate these principles succinctly, reinforcing the collective identity.

The national anthem of the United States, "The Star-Spangled Banner," has four verses. However, only the first verse is commonly sung at public events. The remaining verses are less well-known and are rarely performed.

The national anthem of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, titled "Saint Vincent, Land of My Birth," was arranged by the composer and musician A. L. (Aubrey) McIntosh. The lyrics were written by James E. (Eustace) McIntosh. The anthem was officially adopted in 1967 and reflects the nation's pride and cultural heritage.

The national anthem of Chad, titled "La Tchadienne," was officially adopted in 1960, the same year Chad gained independence from France. The lyrics were written by the Chadian poet and writer, Joseph Brahim Seid, while the music was composed by the Chadian musician and conductor, Paul S. M. Nguemeni. The anthem reflects the values and aspirations of the Chadian people.

When the American national anthem, "The Star-Spangled Banner," is performed in public, it is customary for individuals to stand and face the flag. Many people place their right hand over their heart as a sign of respect. In some cases, military personnel in uniform salute. It is common for the audience to sing along or remain silent in appreciation during the performance.

"Our Nation's Dawning" is a composition by the American composer and conductor, John Philip Sousa. Known for his military marches, Sousa wrote this piece in 1918, reflecting themes of patriotism and national pride. The work is often associated with Sousa's broader contributions to American music, particularly in the genre of marches.

The national anthem at the Toronto Maple Leafs game against the Montreal Canadiens on April 27, 2013, was sung by the Canadian singer and songwriter, Justin Bieber. This game was part of the NHL’s regular season, and Bieber's performance was notable given his high profile at the time.

In the story "Anthem" by Ayn Rand, the trigger incident occurs when the protagonist, Equality 7-2521, discovers a hidden tunnel from the Unmentionable Times and finds a forgotten lightbulb. This revelation ignites his curiosity and desire for knowledge, leading him to explore individualism and ultimately challenge the collectivist society that suppresses personal freedom and innovation. This moment sets him on a path toward self-discovery and rebellion against the established norms.

"The Battle Hymn of the Republic" could make a compelling national anthem due to its powerful lyrics and themes of justice, equality, and unity. Its historical significance and emotional resonance evoke a sense of purpose and perseverance. However, its strong religious undertones and ties to the Civil War might not fully encapsulate the diverse values and beliefs of all Americans today. Ultimately, while it has the potential to inspire, its suitability as a national anthem would depend on the desire for inclusivity in representing the nation's identity.

In Ayn Rand's "Anthem," Equality 7-2521's curse is his individualism in a society that values conformity and collectivism above all else. He is marked as different because of his intelligence and desire for personal freedom, which leads him to question the oppressive societal norms that dictate his life. This internal struggle sets him apart from his peers and ultimately drives him to seek a life of independence and self-discovery. His curse, therefore, is both a source of suffering and a catalyst for his eventual awakening.

The national anthem is typically sung in about one to two minutes, depending on the arrangement and tempo chosen. For formal events, the preferred duration is generally around 90 seconds to ensure clarity and respect for the anthem's significance. It's important for singers to maintain a steady pace to honor the anthem's dignity while allowing the audience to participate.

National anthems are composed to symbolize and express a nation's identity, values, and history. They often evoke feelings of patriotism and unity among citizens, serving as a musical representation of national pride. Additionally, anthems are used in ceremonial contexts, reinforcing a sense of belonging and collective memory during national celebrations and events.

In many national anthems, the symbol of freedom often represented is the eagle, particularly in countries like the United States where the bald eagle signifies independence and strength. Additionally, elements such as the flag or the imagery of open skies and vast landscapes frequently convey the ideals of liberty and the pursuit of happiness. These symbols collectively evoke a sense of pride and unity among citizens while celebrating their nation's values of freedom.

In Ayn Rand's "Anthem," when the protagonist, Equality 7-2521, sees his reflection for the first time, he is filled with awe and wonder. He experiences a profound sense of individual identity and self-recognition, realizing the uniqueness of his own being. This moment marks a pivotal shift in his consciousness, as he embraces the concept of self and individuality, contrasting sharply with the collectivist society that has suppressed such notions. His reaction signifies the awakening of his spirit and a rejection of the imposed conformity.

The national anthem of Ghana is titled "God Bless Our Homeland Ghana." Composed by the musician Philip Gbeho in 1957, the anthem emphasizes themes of patriotism, unity, and the commitment to the nation's progress. It reflects the country's aspirations for peace and development, celebrating Ghana's rich cultural heritage and the sacrifices made for independence. The anthem is often performed at official ceremonies and national events, fostering a sense of national pride among Ghanaians.