Estonian disharmony over national anthem

Estonians are embroiled in debate over the national anthem, "Mu isamaa, mu õnn ja rõõm" (my homeland, my good fortune and joy). It was written in 1848 by German composer Friedrich Pacius, who later settled in Finland. The song became Estonia's national anthem after independence was declared in 1920. But Finns use the same melody for their anthem. So the association of Estonian male choirs has proposed introducing a new anthem. Alo Lohmus takes the side of opponents in the fray: "I can't imagine why this anthem suddenly is subjected to criticism on aesthetic grounds. Do you trade in your grandma if she has too many wrinkles? This question is aimed at politicians, musicians and young poets who are calling for a new anthem to be sung, at least at the flag-raising ceremony on Cathedral Hill. ... An anthem is not party music. Its value lies in its tradition."

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