<P> In the early part of the 20th century there existed a Military Band version in the higher key of B ♭, because it was easier for brass instruments to play in that key, though it had the disadvantage of being more difficult to sing: however now most Bands play it in the correct key of G . </P> <P> Since 1953, the anthem is sometimes preceded by a fanfare composed by Gordon Jacob for the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II . </P> <P> There have been several attempts to improve the song by rewriting the words . In the nineteenth century there was some lively debate about the national anthem and, even then, verse two was considered to be slightly offensive . Notably, the question arose over the phrase "scatter her enemies ." Some thought it placed better emphasis on the respective power of Parliament and the Crown to change "her" to "our"; others pointed out that the theology was somewhat dubious and substituted "thine" instead . Sydney G.R. Coles wrote a completely new version, as did Canon F.K. Harford . In 1836, William Edward Hickson wrote four alternative verses . The first, third, and fourth of these verses are appended to the National Anthem in the English Hymnal (which only includes verses one and three of the original lyrics). </P> <P> William Hickson's alternative (1836) version includes the following verses, of which the first, third, and fourth have some currency as they are appended to the National Anthem in the English Hymnal . The fourth verse was sung after the traditional first verse at the Queen's Golden Jubilee National Service of Thanksgiving in 2002 and during the raising of the Union Flag during the closing ceremonies of the 2008 Summer Olympics . </P>

Who wrote the music for the british national anthem