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Author Talk with Mark Clague

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PBS Books is pleased to host a conversation with author and esteemed scholar Mark Clague, author of O Say Can You Hear?: A Cultural Biography of The Star-Spangled Banner, in celebration of the Fourth of July and in anticipation of our nation’s 250th celebration.

Clague’s fascinating story of America’s national anthem examines its history and powerful meaning today. In O Say Can You Hear? Mark Clague brilliantly weaves together the stories of the song and the nation it represents. Examining the origins of both text and music, alternate lyrics and translations, and the song’s use in sports, at times of war, and for political protest, he argues that the anthem’s meaning reflects―and is reflected by―the nation’s quest to become a more perfect union. From victory song to hymn of sacrifice and vehicle for protest, the story of Key’s song is the story of America itself. Join us to hear insights in Mark’s process, research and books, and even have an opportunity to listen to a rendition our national song.

Lynette Clemetson, who is the Director of the Knight-Wallace Fellowships for Journalists and the Livingston Awards at Wallace House at the University of Michigan, will provide a brief introduction.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Mark Clague, Ph.D., serves as Associate Professor of Musicology, Arts Leadership, and American Culture at the University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre & Dance, where he is also Associate Dean of Collaborations and Partnerships. His book O Say Can You Hear: A Cultural Biography of “The Star-Spangled Banner” was just published by W.W. Norton. Mark’s research focuses on the social power of music in American life. His publications include the recording Poets & Patriots: A Tuneful History of The Star-Spangled Banner, which surveys historic versions and political parodies of the U.S. national anthem. This work also appears in the Star Spangled Songbook, a collection of sheet music. His anthem research work has sparked collaborations with the Smithsonian Museum of American History, Los Angeles Grammy Museum, Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library, and in recital with baritone Thomas Hampson at the Library of Congress. His ongoing research is featured at starspangledmusic.org and he posts to twitter as @usmusicscholar.
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