Solution to nationalanthemconcerns

THE EDITOR: This is not the first time there has been concern about the performance of our national anthem, this time at the closing function of Carifesta with variations of the original music score.

A simple solution is to have the anthem sung by all. In so doing, even with accompaniment, the music will allow for the original score and avoid conflict.

Additionally, the anthem must be seen as not for entertainment but to promote patriotism. It is perhaps as good a time in this patriotic month for us to consider this.

Whenever I can influence a programme in which the anthem is to be included, I always insist that it reads: national anthem (to be sung by all).

In so doing we eliminate possible undue interference.

The anthem has been described as “the musical signature of our nation” and any interference makes that signature counterfeit, as noted music teacher Sheldon Morales of Presentation College, Chaguanas, has put it.

It is also not to take away from the outstanding success of Carifesta XIV.

We teach the anthem in our schools and way back in 1986, then education minister Clive Pantin introduced the daily singing of the anthem, with outstanding results.

The opinion of President Paula-Mae Weekes is also noteworthy and consistent with her remarks in her inaugural address when she made reference to our national songs, God Bless Our Nation and Our Nation’s Dawning. She has demonstrated great patriotism by example.

Happy independence 2019!

LENNOX SIRJUESINGH

via e-mail