A lot goes out to the men and women in any organization (whether paid or volunteer) who stand before thousands to sing songs obviously well known. Any slight error and they’re deemed “awful” by people who probably can’t sing much outside of their own shower. Either way, arrangements are also not often written by the groups performing. This seems like a “jazzed” version of our National Anthem, but it keeps the tempo moving (as required for tv broadcasting, a typical national anthem often runs long) and throws off the crowd just enough that they may actually hear the notes on words like “oh” which is often unnoticed.
I showed this video to many friends, and if I lived in the area, I would strongly suggest people look into not only joining, but hiring this group!
Well done Alexandria Singers!
*I also have a degree in Music (Education), and know quite a bit about performing in large arenas such as this. In case anyone was questioning my judgment.*
The anthem was fine. It’s our fans who need to learn how to behave.
I really think it would be best just to drop the singing of the Star-Spangled Banner at sporting events. It’s become too routine to a lot of people and they no longer respect it. Once upon a time (I’m thinking 20 to 30 years ago) it was a Big Deal to hear the National Anthem performed. Nowadays people act like it’s an imposition; they resent having to get out of their seats and they stand with their arms folded across their chests in that “get-it-over-with” pose. The worst (aside from the “O” crowd) are the people who don’t hang up their cell phones.
As someone with Canadian roots, I can’t see what was wrong with this fine rendition. Thanks for the link Ted.
Singing a capella (that’s without accompaniment) in any venue is a challenge. This group pulled it off, in front of THOUSANDS, in the acoustical equivalent of the Bat Cave, without slipping in pitch. Say what you will about the arrangement (I’m pretty sure that they didn’t write it, so leave that off the table)… it takes REAL concentration, BALLS, and talent to do this. Congrats Alexandria Singers… you did DC proud.
Yes, I know what I’m talking about… I have a degree in Vocal Music.
You thought it was disrespectful? It sounded pretty nice to me. Maybe the YouTube video looses something.
I’m not fond of anthem renditions that add new words, or “echo” existing lines for effect. Harmonies are great, but don’t alter the words just to show off your chops. -JW
I’m confused. What’s the big deal about this group singing O Canada? I’m not Canadian, nor do I know their anthem by heart. But their rendition seemed respectful and classy. Perhaps some of the crowd noise was a bite disrespectful but I fail to see anything wrong with this performance.
Mike
Sounded fine to me. I liked the harmony and the higher key the chorus used. The worst part was the rude fans who were yelling during it.
Well said, PuckyGirl.
A lot goes out to the men and women in any organization (whether paid or volunteer) who stand before thousands to sing songs obviously well known. Any slight error and they’re deemed “awful” by people who probably can’t sing much outside of their own shower. Either way, arrangements are also not often written by the groups performing. This seems like a “jazzed” version of our National Anthem, but it keeps the tempo moving (as required for tv broadcasting, a typical national anthem often runs long) and throws off the crowd just enough that they may actually hear the notes on words like “oh” which is often unnoticed.
I showed this video to many friends, and if I lived in the area, I would strongly suggest people look into not only joining, but hiring this group!
Well done Alexandria Singers!
*I also have a degree in Music (Education), and know quite a bit about performing in large arenas such as this. In case anyone was questioning my judgment.*
The anthem was fine. It’s our fans who need to learn how to behave.
I really think it would be best just to drop the singing of the Star-Spangled Banner at sporting events. It’s become too routine to a lot of people and they no longer respect it. Once upon a time (I’m thinking 20 to 30 years ago) it was a Big Deal to hear the National Anthem performed. Nowadays people act like it’s an imposition; they resent having to get out of their seats and they stand with their arms folded across their chests in that “get-it-over-with” pose. The worst (aside from the “O” crowd) are the people who don’t hang up their cell phones.
As someone with Canadian roots, I can’t see what was wrong with this fine rendition. Thanks for the link Ted.
Singing a capella (that’s without accompaniment) in any venue is a challenge. This group pulled it off, in front of THOUSANDS, in the acoustical equivalent of the Bat Cave, without slipping in pitch. Say what you will about the arrangement (I’m pretty sure that they didn’t write it, so leave that off the table)… it takes REAL concentration, BALLS, and talent to do this. Congrats Alexandria Singers… you did DC proud.
Yes, I know what I’m talking about… I have a degree in Vocal Music.
You thought it was disrespectful? It sounded pretty nice to me. Maybe the YouTube video looses something.
I’m not fond of anthem renditions that add new words, or “echo” existing lines for effect. Harmonies are great, but don’t alter the words just to show off your chops. -JW
I’m confused. What’s the big deal about this group singing O Canada? I’m not Canadian, nor do I know their anthem by heart. But their rendition seemed respectful and classy. Perhaps some of the crowd noise was a bite disrespectful but I fail to see anything wrong with this performance.
Mike
Sounded fine to me. I liked the harmony and the higher key the chorus used. The worst part was the rude fans who were yelling during it.
They were an embarrassment to the Caps.
The Chorus was excellent.