A Centennial Adventure

“100 Years of the Republic of Austria” should be an occasion to reflect on the value of freedom and democracy, precious treasures that don’t grow on trees but which have to be fought for again and again. The imperial anthem composed by Franz Josef Haydn, which to this day, survives as the German national anthem, has played a very special role in the story of Austria. It seems that Haydn was inspired by a Croatian folksong. It was sung in Burgenland Croatian areas in various versions under the title “Atal se jesem” (“I am standing”). The composer wrote this piece as a tribute to all people standing up for democracy in the name of mankind. A festive and impressive piece forcelebrational events alike!