anthem

An anthem serves as a musical expression of collective identity — whether national (the national anthem), religious (a church anthem), or cultural. The term originally referred to a choral composition for church use, typically setting a biblical text for choir and organ. National anthems are among the most widely known pieces of music in the world, though their musical quality varies enormously. Some, like La Marseillaise and the Star-Spangled Banner, are dramatically powerful. Others are simple hymn-like tunes. The tradition of standing for a national anthem dates from the 19th century, and the practice of playing anthems at sporting events began in the United States during World War I.