We have a collection of 4 arrangements for John Stafford Smith - Francis Scott Key - The Star-Spangled Banner
Did you know The Star-Spangled Banner was originally a poem written during the War of 1812? Learn!
"The Star-Spangled Banner" is the national anthem of the United States, not a musical work by an artist named "Misc." The song was written by Francis Scott Key during the War of 1812 and was officially adopted as the national anthem in 1931.
Here are some interesting facts about "The Star-Spangled Banner":
Origin: The lyrics were inspired by the defense of Fort McHenry during the Battle of Baltimore on September 13-14, 1814.
Poem to Song: Francis Scott Key originally wrote the lyrics as a poem titled "Defence of Fort M'Henry." The poem was later set to the tune of the popular British song "To Anacreon in Heaven."
Key's Inspiration: Francis Scott Key was inspired to write the lyrics after witnessing the American flag still flying over Fort McHenry despite a night of heavy bombardment by the British. This resilience moved him, and he expressed it in his poem.
Original Title: The song was initially known as "The Defence of Fort M'Henry." The title was later changed to "The Star-Spangled Banner."
Adoption as National Anthem: It became the national anthem of the United States on March 3, 1931, when President Herbert Hoover signed a congressional resolution.
Key's Profession: Francis Scott Key was a lawyer and amateur poet. He wrote the lyrics during his captivity on a British ship during the War of 1812.
Verses: While the anthem we commonly hear today has four verses, only the first verse is usually performed on official occasions.
"The Star-Spangled Banner" remains a symbol of American patriotism and is often performed at public events, including sports games and official ceremonies.