In Peace They Will Live

“In Peace They Will Live” (set to the familiar melody usually known as “Amazing Grace”) is a hymn holding great meaning for the Cherokee people. Often referred to as the Cherokee National Anthem, “Amazing Grace” was sung on the Trail of Tears (also known as Nunna dual Tsuny - Trail Where They Cried). Paying tribute to this tradition, the composer uses authentic Cherokee language for the text and crafts an accompaniment with optional small handheld percussion and flute or violin. Phonetic subtext is provided to aid singers with pronunciation. This arrangement uses the OverHill (or Western) Cherokee dialect and has been renamed to reflect the true Cherokee text, using the final line as its title. This selection would make a wonderful addition to any concert, but is especially suited for American Music Month or Native American Heritage Month (November).