MUSIC LESSONS

The world record for the worst rendition of a National Anthem probably goes to sprinter Carl Lewis (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HJLvCM4j2mg) with Roseanne Barr (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DrFW2aYHVR8) finishing a close second. The difference between their 'interpretations' is Roseanne Barr intended to sing it badly, thinking it 'funny.' Carl Lewis was really trying to sing it well, he just cannot sing. Barr's version angered people: Lewis' was just embarrassing.

There are a couple of music lessons in this...

1. There are certain songs that one mocks at one's own peril. If you
are going to make a political statement by mocking anyone's
national anthem, you have that right under our laws. However,
others have equal right to respond in like manner.
2. There are certain songs that one performs at one's own peril. The
Star Spangled Banner is such a song. It's an odd melody, with a
big range. Great singers sing it with fear and trembling. The
history of music is filled with such pieces. Classical works by
Liszt, Brahms, and Rachmaninoff seem to top the difficult piano
pieces. My kids listen to the guitar work of the band, Dragon
Force, which others play only at their peril
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0jgrCKhxE1s)

So...before you mock, count the cost. And before you perform a song in public, be sure you're up to it. The rule of thumb is until you can play it flawlessly seven times in a row, you are not ready.