AUDIO: Alternative anthem hits right note
AN innovative proposal for a new Northern Ireland anthem seems to be making a good impression on fellow supporters.
Avid football fan the Rev David Montgomery, as revealed in yesterday's News Letter, has penned his own adapted version of the well-known anthem the Londonderry Air.
NI Minister pens new anthem
The unique composition by the Wicklow-based Presbyterian minister introduces a number of phrases he believes are associated with supporting Northern Ireland to the familiar sound of Danny Boy.
Mr Montgomery's initiative stemmed from the ongoing debate over the future of God Save the Queen being played ahead of international matches.
The national anthem was roundly booed by Scottish fans before an international friendly in Glasgow earlier this month.
Die-hard supporters posting on the Our Wee Country website have reacted positively to the Glengormley man's proposal and another anthem has also been put forward, instigating further constructive debate.
As an alternative, another user suggested a new anthem to the sound of famous hymn Be Thou My Vision.
The two-verse composition entitled One Team makes reference to all six counties in the Province and includes the line: "With all that unites us, in following our dream, one purpose, one vision, one country, one team."
Another fan said: "Danny Boy is a tune inherently associated with Northern Ireland and the words he has penned are excellent."
Another user wrote: "I really like Rev Montgomery's version; great lyrics and the tune is something I already associate with Northern Ireland."
One fan commended the "positive contributions" of both alternative anthems.
Speaking last night the Rev Montgomery, who reguarly attends matches at Windsor Park, was heartened by the feedback.
"I have been really impressed by the quality of the debate and encouraged that a number of fans have taken to it (the anthem]," he said.
"At least one other fan has written another alternative.
"We have corresponded with each other and agree that so long as some positive and widely accepted change happens, we don't mind if it's our song or another one (that is selected]."
The minister also confirmed he has forwarded his proposal to the Irish Football Association for consideration.
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Wednesday 30 May 2012
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