Blog Post No. 28: Not with a Cry
"Not with a Cry" addresses humanity's need to focus on real problems.
From my early teenage years, melody has been the most important musical element for me. Melody conveys the story.
I have tried to learn from the great composers: Stravinsky's work (and my mother's— she was a visual artist inspired by Picasso) opened my eyes to the joys of applying myself to a variety of styles. Underlying each stylist experiment is what Copland referred to as "the only thing a composer can give: our personality." My personality is deeply anchored to social justice. This theme, for me, includes addressing all of our common problems: climate catastrophe, racism, sexism, fascism...
"Not with a Cry" is an intentionally understated work. Technically it reflects my experience with amateur rather than the more highly trained choruses which I have conducted.
For rehearsal purposes, I will be happy to send you a piano arrangement which doubles the chorus note for note. Midi tracks for each of the four vocal parts are available. If interested, please email:
Lyrical, a cappella, text about humanity's need to address our real common problems.
