Within These Times: Injustice (2020)

Program Notes

Within These Times is a series of compositions that focus on the issues we face during the 21st century. These topics are ones that challenge us not only as who we are, but how we approach to making this world a better place. 

2020 was a hard year for a lot of people because of the COVID-19 pandemic, but it was also difficult 

Program Notes

Within These Times is a series of compositions that focus on the issues we face during the 21st century. These topics are ones that challenge us not only as who we are, but how we approach to making this world a better place. 

2020 was a hard year for a lot of people because of the COVID-19 pandemic, but it was also difficult because of the many lives that were lost and or had suffered due to an increase of racial discrimination. Racism is not a new social struggle by any means, but it still surprises many people (including me), that it still. The common knowledge should be that everyone is truly equal to each other. Race, sex, religion or any sort of diverse aspect of someone should not be discouraged or looked down upon, but should be respected. Deep down, we are all the same. No one should be discouraged, outcasted, or have their lives threatened or taken away because of any aspects that give them diversity. 

Injustice was written and dedicated to those who lost their lives, lost lives, and continue to fight racism. The piece begins with a chant like melody in the chimes that then turns into a chorale supported by the trombone quartet. As the piece begins to develop the music begins to represent moments of struggle and emotional distress. The middle section is then introduced where the fast pacing of the music represents fear and anger. The section ends with rage in the trombones that then begins to quickly fade away, exhausted. The chant melody and chorale first returns in a weak and mourning expression. Then the chorale changes from minor to major. This changes the mood from painful to hope as the chimes play church-like bell tones and the trombones playing the chorale/ melody gloriously. The piece then ends with a reminder that there is still struggle to this day. However, the final chords express a hope for a future where we can all respect one another for who we are, and whatever defines our human nature.