Anthem

Anthem, a shortened form of ANTIPHON (Gr. anti, 'in return,' phonē, 'voice'; a piece sung in alternate parts), a species of musical composition introduced into the service of the English Church in the reign of Elizabeth, and appointed to be sung daily, at morning and evening service, after the third collect. The words of the anthem are taken from the Psalms, or other suitable parts of the Scriptures, and the music is either for solo, soli, or chorus, or a mixture of all three. In its origin, musical construction, and use it is similar to the motett of the Romish Church, which name has been retained by the Lutheran Church. The word is also loosely used, in such phrases as 'the National Anthem,' for what is rather a hymn. See ANTIPHONY, HYMN, MOTETT, NATIONAL HYMNS, SERVICE (MUSICAL).