Invite your students to write new lyrics to “The Green Anthem” with their own variations on “The Green Anthem” melody. Select up to three (3) student entries to submit to MENC. Entries will be judged on lyric and melodic variation originality by an MENC member panel. Four (4) winning entries will be posted on the MENC Web site and will be performed at the national Green Anthem Concert* in celebration of the 40th Anniversary of Earth Day in April 2010.

*This concert is not an MENC event.

STEP 1:  Download "The Green Anthem" sheet music -- Vocal Score and Piano Accompaniment
STEP 2:  Read the eligibility requirements and rules below
STEP 3:  Submit this form to enter the contest

Deadline: February 15, 2010

Resources: 
Lyric-Writing Audio Accompaniment
Lyric-Writing Lesson
Melodic Variations Lesson
 

Eligibility Requirements:

1. Teacher must be an MENC member and submit application on behalf of his or her student(s).
2. Teacher may select up to three (3) entries to submit to MENC.
3. Lyrics and melodic variations must be written by a student who is between grades 7-12.

Rules:

1. Lyrics can include anything related to the environment (e.g., pollution, global warming, reducing our carbon footprint, effect of toxins on heath, actions people can take to protect and heal the planet).
2. A minimum of 2 verses must be written. There is no maximum number of verses. Students should write as many verses as they need in order to express their ideas. A rhyme scheme is optional.
3. Entry must include at least one voice part and may include up to four parts (SATB).
4. Lyrics must fit into “The Green Anthem” verse timeline: 4 measures with 4 beats per measure.  Use the lyric-writing audio accompaniment.
5. Optional: Lyrics can include piano, orchestral, or other instrumental accompaniment.
6. Optional: You may include an audio recording of your song (must be on CD).
7. A musical score and separate lyric sheet must accompany the application.
8. Plagiarism of copyrighted material is illegal. If any elements of the composition entry are copyrighted, it is the responsibility of the composer to secure permission for use of those elements.