National anthems are an integral part of official receptions and play an important role at major events such as the Olympic Games or World Championships. Most anthems date from the 18-20th centuries and are often an essential part of the political and cultural development of a country, e.g. on its way to independence or democracy. At the same time, the anthem conveys a sense of community and is a means to express identification with one's home country.
This edition contains 50 national anthems from all over the world, with the original melodies and chord symbols, with complete texts in the original language as well as a transliteration in the case of exotic languages. Now available in a revised second edition, the volume contains interesting information on the respective countries as well as on the composers and text writers of the hymns. This edition encourages people to get to know the multitude of different national anthems and to sing along with the text. To complement the melody edition, a piano edition has also been published, with easily playable, pleasing accompaniments (Schott ED 9903).