In the United States, many people will sing their national anthem on Independence Day, but some may be surprised to learn its tune was originally written in England.
John Stafford Smith, baptized in Gloucester in 1750, composed the melody as a drinking song. Known as “The Anacreontic Song,” it became popular both in England and among immigrants to the United States by the early 19th century.
The lyrics we know as “The Star-Spangled Banner” were added later, taken from a poem by Francis Scott Key during the War of 1812.
Key was inspired by the sight of the American flag flying over Fort McHenry despite British bombardment. The poem’s verses were matched to Stafford Smith’s tune, and in 1931, it officially became the U.S. national anthem.
Despite the anthem’s origins and the historical tensions between the U.S. and Britain, the music’s universal appeal transcends political divides, as noted by Adrian Partington, the director of music at Gloucester Cathedral.
Stafford Smith’s connection to the cathedral adds a special significance to hearing the anthem played there, with its rich acoustics enhancing the experience.
Source: BBC
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cp4w2g1pq5go