While I'm gonna steer clear of the question of whether it should be mandatory, I will say that our national anthem is a much better piece of music than any others I've heard. For that reason alone I think kids should sing it.
Not singing is an epidemic that isn't just limited to your kids. I think our society increasingly is afraid to open wide and belt. As a music major I was taught just how ridiculous a fear of singing is. For proof, just check the TFP Karaoke thread in Trampoline. I urge everyone to sing....sing your national anthem. You'll feel better.
Of course, kids aren't concerned with feeling good. They just want to be cool. I guess there's a lot less at stake ideologically by making kids sing the anthem.
I have no idea what my point is.... maybe that O Canada is a good thing. I also think it should be added to all undergrad music programs: learn to sing and play O Canada in all 12 keys. I'll get started on that right now...
