For SATB choir and orchestra
Duration: ca. 7'
This piece is based on a quote from Henry Purcell which was sent to me by my dear friend, Catherine. She sent me a picture of the book she was reading which contained the quote and said “this is the most beautiful thing I have ever read.” I would wholeheartedly agree with her. Upon reading the text, I could already imagine how it would sound like if I were to set it to music, and thus, I did. As I neared the end of the piece, the meaning of the text slowly changed for me. In addition to its message about the incredible unity of poetry and music, it became about unity among people and coming together as a community to face grief, trauma, and hardships: each of us walking hand in hand to support one another.
Text by Henry Purcell (1659 - 1695)
“Music and Poetry have ever been acknowledged Sisters, which walking hand in hand support each other; As poetry is the harmony of words, so music is that of notes; and as poetry is a rise above prose and oratory, so is music the exaltation of poetry. Both of them may excel apart, but sure they are most excellent when they are joined, because nothing is then wanting to either of their perfections: for thus they appear like beauty and wit in the same person.”