National Anthem

Press, 12 October 1988, Page 18

National Anthem

Sir, —I, too, share the deep concern of the R.S.A. about the “obnoxious pop” version of our National Anthem. There is no dignity and reverence at all! However, as I have come to realise, the majority of times it is played is by musicians and musical groups who share the same concern. The result is the original arrangement with all its dignity and solemnity. Imagine how Mark Todd and the others would have felt if this “new” arrangement had been played at the Olympic Games. It seems to me that the Government is the only group in favour of this blot on our musical heritage. It must die! — Yours, etc., J. C. DODGSHUN. October 10, 1988.

Sir, —I hope the Aussies and the French never tamper with their respective national anthems, “Advance Australia Fair” and “La Marseillaise” (which they sing with real feeling), after hearing what has been done to ours. — Yours, etc., JOHN LESLIE. October 10, 1988.

Sir, —“Irreverent and obnoxious pop” it may be (R.S.A., October 11), dismay and concern may be expressed, but now my four and six-year-old daughters know our National Anthem. I did not know it at their age. This “traditional hymn” has been transformed into a song that they, and myself, can relate to. — Yours, etc., CRAIG ANDERSON. October 11, 1988.