Solitude

"Solitude" explores the burden of loneliness that so many of us face. Ironically, our ever growing "interconnectedness" as a global community has increased the distance in our human relationships. So much of our communication and exchange of ideas occurs now only through screens, a medium in which genuine attachment has been lost. The pandemic only exacerbated these issues of isolation, forcing an integral part of what makes us human into hiding. Deprived of everything from physical touch to maskless smiles, many of us felt unbearably alone, and many still struggle today -- feeling unwanted or unable to make those connections we seem to have lost. "Solitude" spreads a message that, though isolation is still very real, we are not alone in our loneliness. From open, free-feeling chords, to tight, constricting tone clusters, the piece journeys through a range of emotions often felt in loneliness—peace and resolve, worry and fear. Starting with a single note, singers soon realize they are not alone as other voices join in their reflections.