The Star-Spangled Banner is traditionally performed at the beginning of public sports events and orchestral concerts in the United States, as well as other public gatherings.

I am a musician and I have played or sung the Star Spangled Banner more times than I can imagine. The song is notoriously difficult for nonprofessional and professionals to sing, mainly because of its wide range which is an octave and a half.

Sometimes I was nervous when I had to perform the very difficult song. However, throughout my career, I do not think I was ever as nervous as I was on October 18, 2003.

Like many of Clay Aiken’s fans, I was excited to hear the news that he was asked to perform the Star-Spangled Banner at the opening of the World Series in 2003. Held at Yankee Stadium in New York, the Yankees were playing the Florida Marlins for the National Championship.

There was no reason to be nervous. Clay sang a wonderful rendition of the anthem and it was done with just Clay’s voice….no accompaniment. Clay sang with conviction and only hesitated for a second when the Stealth Bomber showed up a few seconds too soon. Using common sense, Clay stopped the song for a few moments so that the ending could be heard.

It was an exciting time for Clay Aiken fans. I would imagine it is a moment that Clay will never forget.