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Traditions - Interview with Lauren Hart

We decided to interview Lauren Hart, because she sings the Star Spangled Banner at special local events, especially including the Philadelphia Flyers Ice Hockey games. Lauren's schedule is very busy (she records and performs songs, and, up to recently, cohosted a local morning television show). We emailed Lauren our questions and she sent us her answers. Here is what she had to say:

Questions and Answers:

1. What is it like to sing in front of a crowd of people?

It is the biggest thrill to stand in front of 20,000 people. I was very nervous at first and still my heart beats hard when I am getting ready to come out, but now it is more energy and less fear.

2. How did you memorize the words to the Star Spangled Banner? Did you ever forget the words? Was it hard to memorize?

I have never forgotten the words, but I always have dreams that I am late to the game and that I have forgotten the words. Lucky for me, this has never really happened!

3. Do you have a big heart for singing?

I love singing more than anything in this world. I am always my happiest when I am anywhere near music!

4. Have you been singing for a lot of years?

My first performance was at the Cherry Hill Mall in 4th grade. I was scared but I loved it! And yes ... that day I forgot the words to the song we were singing!

5. When and where was your first performance?

I have been singing since first grade, but my Mom says even longer than that. She says I arrived with a song!

6. Is it hard for you to sing the Star Spangled Banner?

The Star Spangled Banner is not an easy song. I practiced a lot to make it my own special version. It requires some serious skill to be able to make all those notes. I practice a lot, still.

7. How many times have you sung it?

I have sung that song about 500 times!

8. Do you like singing it? Will you continue to sing it?

I never get tired of being at the hockey games and I hope they want me to stay a long time!

Lauren Hart (center), Sara Hart on left (Lauren's mother), and teacher Sherri Colan on right. This photo was taken at a World Cafe concert (sponsored by local radio station 88.5 WPEN Philadelphia). The concert celebrated the recent release of Lauren's new CD 5Lifetimes.

If you would like to find out more about Lauren, you can visit her web site www.laurenhart.com .