[Publius]

This is the source melody for the anthem. It was the theme song of London's Anachreotic Society, a gentleman's drinking club. It was sung in an episode of AMC's series "Turn" by Abraham Woodhull and a group of drunken British officers.

"To Anachreon in Heaven"

It lacks the sharps, flats and dotted notes of the version we sing today.

Here is Rachmaninov's version.

Sergei Rachmaninov plays “The Star Spangled Banner”

[Sirius Lee]

Terrific! Thank you.

[Kathy in Alaska]

Good evening, Publius, and thank you for adding more information.

Thanks for Rachmaninov’s “The Star Spangled Banner”.

[Grateful2God]

I remember in the morning: the bell would ring; we'd stand up and say our Morning Offering; then the Pledge of Allegiance,("Under God" included- I went to Catholic school) and the National Anthem. We'd all get the giggles because nobody could hit the high notes. Now I hear it and I cry- hand on my heart and all!

An interesting note: I had a ticket recently, and when I went to court, the Justice had us all stand up, hands on our hearts, facing the Flag, and saying the pledge. I don't know if that's standard procedure, (first ticket) but I thought that was REALLY great!!! (And he said, "Under God, besides! How cool was that?!?)

[Grateful2God]

Anacreon must have been a pretty heavyweight drinker! That’s a complicated tune for someone who’s wasted. I bet he sat back and listened while everyone tried his drinking songs, and laughed!