ABSTRACT
The meaning of the music, however, is more problematic. Music means everything and nothing simultaneously. However, the melody of the American national anthem does follow certain well-established compositional procedures for songs that are intended for mass singing: a memorable tune with balanced phrases and contrasting sections which follow the shift in emphasis, the change of mood in the lyrics. A melody that stays within a limited and singable vocal range; and a move to an emotional climax as the song nears its end. In common with the British national anthem, 'The Star Spangled Banner' is in 3–4 time – a waltz – but with an equal emphasis on each beat of the bar that moves it towards a march, appropriate to its militaristic associations. As such, Hendrix's choice of 'The Star Spangled Banner' as the climax to his set was no spontaneous gesture.
