National Anthem CD launched
1 April 2000
National Anthem CD launched
The call by the
country’s sporting organisations for more guidance in the
singing of our National Anthem has been answered.
On
tonight's Live Lotto draw, singer Frankie Stevens unveiled a
new National Anthem CD.
The Minister of Internal Affairs
Mark Burton said that his department, working with the
Hillary Commission, has produced the CD which will be sent
free to all sporting organisations, stadia and libraries
around the country. It will also be published on the
Internal Affairs website.
“The CD features four different
performances including male and female voices and soloists,”
he said. “All of the performances have been successfully
used at major sporting events.
"We are not dictating how
the National Anthem should be performed. The CD offers
examples which should promote a more consistent approach and
encourage New Zealanders to join in with confidence."
Mr
Burton said the CD also includes a backing track, arranged
by composer/musician David Dell, for use by smaller sporting
bodies, schools or community organisations with their own
singers. This backing track is not intended for use at any
major sporting event.
The words in Maori and English are
included with the CD, along with a musical score.
“The
Maori version of the opening verse of the Anthem is sung
first in each example, following the successful approach
taken by the Silver Ferns. Most Kiwis are familiar with the
English words and I hope this CD will now see more people
learning the Maori words.”
Mr Burton acknowledged with
gratitude that the performers - String of Pearls, Ainslie
Allen and Frankie Stevens - all gave their services free, as
did the back tracking arranger David Dell.
Contact: Frankie Stevens 025 246-1623