Stravinsky's Star-Spangled Banner

Stravinsky's Star-Spangled Banner

The composer's patriotic arrangement of the American national anthem initially met with a frosty reception...

Exclusive US Offer - try a BBC Music Magazine subscription and get your first 3 issues for only $12.99 PLUS delivery from the UK!

Published: November 26, 2015 at 1:10 pm

Stravinsky emigrated to the United States in 1939, and remained there until his death in 1971.

During the Second World War he decided to arrange the American national anthem, out of a 'desire to do my bit in these grievous times toward fostering and preserving the spirit of patriotism in this country.'

Unfortunately, the Boston police force took issue with his arrangement - perhaps the unconventional inclusion of a dominant seventh was a step too far…

Though he was never arrested (contrary to popular myth) the police issued Stravinsky with a warning, claiming that tampering with the national anthem was against the law.

Related articles:

Five intriguing national anthems

Sidebar Image

Exclusive U.S. Offer

Try a BBC Music Magazine subscription and get free delivery from the UK!

Subscribe Now!
Receive our weekly newsletter, packed with features, news and reviews
By entering your details, you are agreeing to Classical Music terms and conditions. You can unsubscribe at any time.

Exclusive U.S. Offer

Try a BBC Music Magazine subscription and get free delivery from the UK!

This website is owned and published by Our Media Ltd. www.ourmedia.co.uk
© Our Media 2025