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I Will Be a Child of Peace
for ssa chorus
cu1050-I-Will-Be-a-Child-of-Peace-SSA_Page_8.jpg
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Description
I Will Be a Child of Peace is an arrangement of the Shaker Hymn tune, O Holy Father, which has been attributed to Alonzo Gilman of the Shaker Community in Alfred, Maine in 1851. I was originally drawn to this song by the beautiful simplicity of the Shaker melody, unique 5/4 meter, and most importantly, the uplifting text of a prayer for peace and purity.
the Inspiration
Text
O Holy Father I will be
a child of peace and purity.
For well I know Thy hand will bless
the seeker after righteousness.
- traditional Shaker hymn
Composer Notes
“I Will Be a Child of Peace” marked a significant milestone in my journey as a composer, as it was my first published piece. The inspiration came from an archival recording of three elderly women singing this unaccompanied unison Shaker hymn. By classical standards, their performance was unpolished, and the vocal technique was unrefined—yet it was filled with honest emotion and beautiful sincerity. It was a heartfelt prayer, profoundly moving in its simplicity.
Moved by their rendition, I felt compelled to bring this hymn to a wider audience. I notated its distinctive 5/4 rhythms, enriched it with vocal harmonies, and added a piano accompaniment. My hope is that performances of this piece will inspire singers and audiences alike to be peacemakers.
“...Thy hand will bless
the seeker after righteousness.”
- Traditional Shaker Hymn
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