In a world often divided by borders and ideologies, a new international music collaboration titled Ode to Peace is striking a chord with listeners worldwide. The project, featuring artists and young performers from over 30 countries and regions, blends traditional Asian instruments with Western orchestration to create a multilingual anthem for unity.
Conceived during last year’s ASEAN Cultural Forum, the song’s creation involved months of virtual collaboration. A Cambodian folk musician’s tro khmer melody forms the backbone, interwoven with Japanese taiko drums, Indian sitar riffs, and a children’s choir from conflict-affected areas. Lyrics in 12 languages repeat the phrase 'We breathe as one' – a theme that resonated powerfully during recent recording sessions in Jakarta.
‘This isn’t just a song – it’s proof that shared humanity can transcend politics,’ said Malaysian composer Aisyah Rahman, who coordinated the project. The track’s release coincides with UNESCO’s Global Citizenship Education Week, with plans for school workshops using the music to teach conflict resolution.
Early listeners describe the piece as 'a sonic United Nations' with its layering of Balinese gamelan, Chinese guzheng, and Arabic oud. Musicologists note the strategic use of the pentatonic scale – common to most Asian musical traditions – to create accessible harmonies. The project’s young performers will gather for their first live performance at Singapore’s Esplanade this November, turning abstract ideals into audible hope.
