The anthem for a person, office or rank is music played on formal or ceremonial occasions in the presence of the person, office-holder, or rank-holder, especially by a military band. The head of state in many countries is honored with a prescribed piece of music; in some countries the national anthem serves this purpose, while others have a separate royal, presidential, or, historically, imperial anthem. Other officials may also have anthems, such as the vice-regal salute in several Commonwealth realms for the Governor-General, Governor, or Lieutenant Governor. Ruffles and flourishes may be played instead of, or preceding, such an anthem.

Countries where the national anthem is also the head of state's personal anthem include Barbados, Jamaica, Japan, Malaysia, the Netherlands, Pakistan and Portugal.

Other examples include the following: