Anthem to US, a new project presented by Brooklyn Public Library and Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, in collaboration with New York Public Library for the Performing Arts and Queens Public Library, invites all voices—those born within these borders and those who made their way here—to create a contemporary anthem that echoes our collective hopes, struggles, and untold histories.
Paying homage to the anthem genre, Anthem to US will create a modern piece to add to the canon, which includes America the Beautiful, We Shall Overcome, My Country Tis of Thee, and Lift Every Voice and Sing, reflecting the experiences, realities, hopes and dreams of a new generation.
Selected participants will embark on an immersive three-part writing workshop series guided by notable instructors. The workshops will explore themes, song structures, and melodies across diverse styles. After the workshops, three applicants will advance to collaborate with composers, including Damien L. Sneed, Jaime Lozano, Martha Redbone and Aaron Whitby to craft a finished piece. The final three anthems will be judged by luminaries including Laurie Anderson, and brought to life with performances on Saturday, July 6, 2024 at Brooklyn Public Library and Lincoln Center, as part of their Summer for the City festival.
Anthem to US acknowledges the rich multicultural diversity of New York City and invites applicants of all ages and backgrounds to share their vision and aspirations for the future.
To learn more about the project and apply for a workshop, please visit AnthemtoUS.org.