The Star Spangled Banner

When approached by the directors of the Lawler Symphony Orchestra to compose an arrangement of the Star Spangled Banner, I wanted to do something to tell “their” story.  Many of these students began their musical journey behind a keyboard and on a screen as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.  Their journey began in a less than ideal educational environment.  Many were left with the question, “Will anything ever really be back to normal?”

In most musical interpretations, the opening phrase of our National Anthem begins as a statement.  But look closely at the words:

“O say can you see by the dawn’s early light…”

It isn’t a statement. It, too, is a question!  Therefore, I wanted to create a musical portrait that focused on answering that question within the compositional structure of the piece.  After an initial musical “question” in the harp, the first melodic presentation feels “off” from what you would normally expect.  It is presented in 4/4 time and in a minor mode.  It is almost as if the music is asking, “Will anything ever really be back to normal?  Will we be able to see through the fog of fear caused by the pandemic to a more hopeful early light of dawn?”  

As the piece progresses, it gradually moves from “question” to answer.  The harmonic journey leads us from minor to major key centers.  When the brass enters with their statement of the melodic material in the expected 3/4 time, it is done in a calming yet confident lyrical manner.  

This leads to a triumphant final statement presented by the entire ensemble, where they answer together in one accord:

“O say does that star-spangled banner yet wave

O’er the land of the free and the home of the brave.”

This ensemble….these students are a testament and an example of inspiration to us all.  The answer to the question is a resounding, “Yes! Everything will, indeed, be okay!”  

From screen to stage, these student performers embody the American spirit of patriotism we all cherish as members of this great country.

This transcription was completed in the fall of 2023 for the Stonebriar Wind Symphony in Frisco, Texas. It was premiered on May 26, 2024 with the composer conducting.