What will you do to make peace on September 21? Please log your commitment on
www.peaceoneday.org to inspire others. By working together there will be Peace One Day
Writing a Pea
ce Anthem
As a starting point for writing your own Peace Anthem, carefully read and consider the background
information below.
Approa
ches t
o Songwriting
There are several different ways to approach Perhaps the songwriter has developed a melody
songwriting. Some songwriters begin with the or a chord sequence through improvisation that
words or lyrics; others begin with musical ideas forms the main themes or feel of the song.
for tunes, riffs, or improvisations.
Sometimes songs seem to spring from nowhere,
A writer may begin with a simple idea for a lyric, full lyrics and music at the same moment; but
perhaps one or two lines that sum up a subject not many people have this ability. The songwriter
he/she wants to write about. Leonard Cohen is said to have taken years to write
These simple lines will have their own natural some of his songs, reworking them as he traveled
rhythms, and when they are spoken through in to different parts of the world.
different ways and styles, the shape of the phrases
and style of the song may just emerge. Many songs have a “message,” a political or social
The rhythm of the words may even suggest the theme. Songwriters such as Bob Dylan, Joan Baez,
right musical accompaniment, too. and Billy Bragg, to name a few, wrote songs that
aimed to stir up feelings and emotions about a
Another writer may come up with the title or subject particular topic or campaign.
idea first and then respond to this, perhaps using Ask a relative if he/she has any songs by such
the rhythms from the words to develop ideas for artists to inspire you before you begin your ideas
a chorus. for Peace One Day.
Other songs may emerge from a simple musical
idea that evokes a mood or emotion.
let’s be
gin!
As you approach this task, here are a few things
to consider:
1. Create a relaxed and focused environment 6. Give yourself a realistic deadline to come up
when you’re writing. Having a TV/radio on in with a first draft idea. Agree on a time to share
the background probably won’t help! your ideas with friends, teachers, or family.
2. Allocate a specific amount of time to your 7. Collaborate with others. If writing lyrics
songwriting. Even if it’s half an hour, time comes easily to you, try teaming up with
yourself and stick to it. someone who has the ability to come up with
3. If no ideas come right away, don’t panic; keep musical ideas.
working at it. Writing songs can take time. 8. Take it seriously. Respect yourself and the
4. Write everything down. Carry a notebook with people you are collaborating with. You may
you at all times. Sometimes you may have surprise yourself!
an idea on the bus, walking to school, or at
lunchtime.
5. If your strength is coming up with musical
ideas, try and get hold of a simple recording
device like a tape recorder, digital recorder,
or MP3 player with a recording facility and
carry it with you. hjgvvchgjcfccc
Resource X – Writing a Peace Anthem
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