Urbane Hymnen - Moderne Hymnen

This bachelor’s thesis examines the concept of “urban anthems” as identity-forming elements within contemporary urban culture. While national anthems are traditionally institutionalized and state-legitimized, urban anthems often emerge from popular culture and civil society. The study explores how such musical works contribute to collective identification and local belonging. The theoretical framework traces the historical development of the anthem from ancient hymns of praise to modern national representations, followed by an analytical examination of selected city and club anthems. Particular attention is given to musical structure, lyrical content, and social function, highlighting characteristics such as accessibility, repetitive structures, and communal singability. Based on these findings, the practical component of the thesis consists of the composition and production of an original urban anthem entitled “A Song for Bielefeld.” The project aims to implement the identified structural and thematic features while reflecting values of community, tolerance, and diversity. The thesis demonstrates that urban anthems function as hybrid forms between popular music and social symbolism. They serve not only as aesthetic expressions but also as media of collective identity construction and social cohesion within contemporary urban environments.