The Lithuanian national anthem was composed by Dr. Vincas
Kudirka. In fact, it was his poem titled "National Hymn", published
in 1898 in the newspaper Varpas edited by Kudirka. At the time (the
press ban era) the Lithuanian press published many patriotic poems
and songs. As they sang the songs and read and recited the poems,
Lithuanians understood more deeply and became mote conscious
of love for their nation and a desire to win freedom. Dr. Kudirka did
not intend his poem to become the Lithuanian anthem. He did not
live to see the Declaration of Independence and did not know that
his "National Hymn" had become the foremost and greatest
expression of love for one's land - the National Anthem.
The "National Hymn" was first performed by a chorus under
the direction of composer Ceslovas Sasnauskas at a concert on
November 13, 1899. The concert was held in St. Petersburg, Russia
where a large number of Lithuanians lived at the time. Dr. V
Kudirka had just recently died.
Even then, some intellectuals (i.e. Kazys Grinius, later President
of Lithuania) began to call the "National Hymn" the National
Anthem. In Vilnius, Lithuanians heard the "National Hymn" for the
first time on December 3, 1905. The concert was performed on the
eve of the Great Council of Lithuania. Afterward, the song spread
throughout Lithuania and was sung on diverse solemn ( occasions.
When Lithuania became independent, the "National Hymn" was
officially proclaimed the National Anthem (1919). Its title was
changed to the first three words of the first verse: Lietuva, tevyne
musu ("Lithuania, Our Homeland").
On numerous occasions sing another song by the beloved national poet Maironis: Lietuva brangi,
mano tevyne ("Lithuania, My Beloved Homeland"). This song has
become like a substitute National Anthem.
Lithuania, my homeland, land of heroes!
Let your Sons draw strength from the past.
Let your children follow only the paths of virtue,
working for the good of their native land and for all mankind.
Let the sun banish all darkness from Lithuania,
with light and truth always guiding our steps.
Let the love of Lithuania burn in our hearts
and for the sake of our country let unity blossom.
