A star spangled mess

Dear Editor:This is an open letter of complaint concerning the terrible renditions of the "Star Spangled Banner" that is continually foisted on the public and players at the beginning of sporting events. At a Lakers game recently they had some young guy from "American Idol" who butchered the song. He sang flat, off-key and was shabbily attired. The "Star Spangled Banner" is our national anthem and though a little difficult to sing it should be sung by a talented, quality singer with a trained voice or a chorus without the caterwauling. If not possible, how about a good orchestra or band and ask the audience to sing as a group? Audience participation is stimulating and if a few of us can't sing perfectly, who cares, others can. We can be patriots. There are so many better options and choices to improve the presentation of the "Star Spangled Banner" at events. - Fern Clute, Downey

********** Published: June 19, 2009 - Volume 8 - Issue 9