Thank you for participating in this A Cappella musical event to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks. We are proud to fuse harmony and humanity as we invite A Cappella groups to perform Zak Abel’s “Be Kind” as a cornerstone of Pay It Forward 9/11 events during the #11DaysofKindness campaign.

Your group might be included in an international music video from Pay it Forward 9/11 on September 1, 2026 to kick off the #11DaysofKindness (Sept 1st-11th).

Please follow the instructions below to record and submit your group’s performance. These guidelines help ensure consistent quality, and the best possible performances from all participating groups.
We invite you to share video performances (clips or entire performances) on social media, websites and with media outlets.

 

Please encourage your members to follow along @payitforward911 on most social channels.
Tag your videos with #BeKind #NeverForget #PayitForward911 #11DaysofKindness

1. Performance Requirements

• Use the provided “Be Kind” arrangement

• Song length: Follow the posted time limit (do not exceed it).

• A cappella only: Voices only — no instruments, backing tracks, or added effects.

• One take: The performance must be recorded in a single, continuous take.

 
2. Video Recording Guidelines
Framing & Orientation

• Record in landscape (horizontal) orientation

• Frame the shot so all singers are clearly visible, with a little space above heads.

• Use a stable setup: tripod or table. Avoid handheld recording.

 

• It’s ok to film with another pro camera/phone for different angles for your group to edit and submit, but it’s not required.

 

Lighting

• Record in a well-lit space.

• Have performers face a window or light source; avoid bright lights or windows behind them.

• Use soft, even lighting when possible (avoid overhead harsh lights).

 

Background

• Choose a quiet, uncluttered background.

• Avoid visual distractions such as moving people, TVs, or mirrors.

 

3. Audio Recording Guidelines (Most Important!)
 

Room Choice

• Choose a quiet room with minimal echo.

 
Group Positioning

• Balance voices naturally — louder voices slightly farther from the mic, softer voices closer.

• Avoid stacking singers directly behind one another.

 

4. Recording with an iPhone
iPhones can capture excellent audio and video when used correctly.

Recommended Settings: - Use the rear camera (higher quality than the front camera).

- Record at 1080p HD (4K is not necessary and creates large files). - Turn on Airplane Mode to avoid interruptions.

 

Placement Tips:

- Place the phone 4–8 feet from the group at chest or head height.

- Do not zoom digitally — move the phone instead.

- Make sure the phone microphone is not blocked.

 

Sound Tips:

- Do a 10–15 second test recording and listen with headphones before the final take.

- If the sound is distorted, move the phone farther away.

- If it sounds distant, move slightly closer or tighten the formation.

 

5. Using Basic External Recording Equipment (Optional)
If you have access to simple recording gear, you may use it.

• A USB microphone or portable recorder (Zoom, Tascam, etc.) is acceptable.

• Place the microphone centered in front of the group.

• If recording audio separately, ensure it is clearly synced with the video. Once the video and audio recording devices begin recording, have someone clap in front of the camera so that you can sync picture and sound during the edit.

• Do not add reverb, EQ, compression, pitch correction, or effects.

 

6. Before You Hit Record

 

Checklist:

- ✅ Everyone knows the starting pitch and tempo

- ✅ Phones on silent / airplane mode

- ✅ HVAC, fans, and appliances turned off

- ✅ Doors and windows closed

- ✅ Test recording completed

 

7. File Requirements & Submission

• Accepted formats: for video (MP4 or MOV), for audio (.WAV or .AIFF)

• Maximum file size: Follow posted limits

• File name format: GroupName_City_state_country_BeKind.mp4, for example: Wingsing_Austin_Texas_USA_BeKind

Submit your video and audio files using the upload link to our WeTransfer. File size limit is <1 GB per submission.

 

8. Final Tips for a Great Submission

• Focus on blend, balance, and musicality rather than perfection.

• Watch the full recording before submitting — both audio and video.

• Choose your best complete take to submit.

• Relax and perform as if you’re singing for a live audience as we want your performance to be seen around the world.

We’re excited to hear your performance of “Be Kind” — good luck, and have fun!
If you have questions, email info@payitforward911.org.