Since my song Peace is a top song on iTunes and a favorite of listeners around the world, I wanted to share some of the story behind this melody from The Voice CD. I started composing Peace in December 2004, and unlike most of my songs, it took another six months to reach its final form. It was recorded in August 2005 at the George Lucas Skywalker Sound Studios, and the angelic vocals of Noah Wilding were added at Imaginary Road Studios a few weeks later with producer Will Ackerman.

This composition was inspired by a little girl named Hayley, who died of leukemia at 22 months old, and whose life will always remind me to treasure every moment with childlike faith. The first version of this piece was like a music box lullaby. Near the completion of this project, the music evolved to a deeper place that attempts to share a peace that transcends circumstances, a peace that passes all understanding . . . a peace that Hayley knows and would want us to know. The delicate vocals are like those of an angel watching over Hayley, and each of us. “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid” (John 14:27).

Hayley’s life and inspiration to so many led to Peace being played at services of remembrance for families who had lost a child to cancer, and CDs being donated to offer hope and healing. Today this program is called Get Music Give Hope and 25,000 CDs have been given away so far. For a powerful video and more information on Get Music Give Hope you can visit https://www.stantonlanier.com/about-mtltw.php.