955 Streets

This piece is written for percussion quartet and narrator. It is a musical expression of my concern and frustration about the polarization and divisiveness in the country today making civil discourse almost impossible. Certain groups are marginalized and often scapegoated - their perspectives are often not heard. People are quick to judge others and respond hatefully and often violently. Solutions to urgent societal problems are not forthcoming because leaders do not listen to each other and collaborate with open minds and thoughtfully. They often act selfishly instead of making decisions for the common good of the people. The title '955 Streets' refers to the number of streets in the U.S. named for Martin Luther King. It seemed to fit this piece since leaders find it easy to rename a street but not easy to work to create a more just and equal community for all.