“Amar Shona'r Bangla, Ami Tomaye Bhalobashi …” the single musical verse that connects all Bangladeshis, transcending geographical and time borders. No melody strikes a chord in so many hearts at once, as much as this song: our very own National Anthem. But internationally, this beloved tune of ours has had to face a setback for decades. At many global sporting events and such, the National Anthem of countries are played in an orchestral arrangement live, but since Bangladesh's National Anthem was not written down in staff notations, it would often be played from a CD, and that too in a marching band arrangement and not a complete symphonic orchestral setup. 

On its 20th anniversary, Crown Cement is making that happen with the help of Blues Communications, bringing the reputed Budapest Philharmonic Orchestra (from Hungary). As a token of gratitude to Bangladesh, Crown Cement's event – to be held at the Bangabandhu International Convention Centre (BICC) today -- will feature the Orchestra play the National Anthem in full staff notation. The notation, done by Bangladeshi composer Swany Zubayeer, will also be documented as the official staff notation for the National Anthem for future reference. To give the Bangladeshi audience a taste of philharmonic orchestra arrangement of their familiar songs, the Budapest Philharmonic will also play with Ayub Bachchu (on his hit “Shei Tumi”) and Mahmuduzzaman Babu (on the Pratul Mukherjee classic “Ami Bangla'y Gaan Gai”). A few other Bangladeshi artistes are also scheduled to perform. 

The orchestra arrived on Dhaka on December 1, and had their practice sessions hosted by Bengal Foundation Chairman Abul Khair at his residence. The 40-piece orchestra was seen rehearsing predominantly on the strings sections, consisting of violins, cellos and two double basses. Clarinets and a xylophone were also adding in their sections, as various members came up front and took the leads. Babu and Zubayeer were also seen at the rehearsals. 

Blues Communications Chief Farhadul Islam said the initiative had ample support from the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy and the Cultural Affairs Ministry. He added he was very excited about having Crown Cement patronise the idea in a big way, and hoped the audience liked it.