Choral Works

Dona Nobis Pacem is inspired by the famous subject line from William Byrd’s Mass for Four Voices. Having sung this piece multiple times, Byrd’s use of dissonance building off this single line before concluding the final piece is almost addicting to listen to. I found myself wondering what it would sound like to lean into this dissonance of this subject line becoming its own canon that builds into an entirely new piece and lead to the creation of this piece.

When I first came across this text, the simplicity in the message was so strong and forward that it stuck with me, and I needed to write for it. As I was in the early stages of its composition, I couldn’t help but think of all the emotions underlining such simple and communicative words. Through my writing, I hope to convey that same passion and care. 

The Oak at its surface level describes the life of a tree and how it changes throughout the seasons. However, when looking deeper, the true meaning starts to unfold into something powerful. The Oak feels as if it is advising the reader by showcasing the beauty that is life, while also reminding us that as we age, all we will have left is ourselves. 

When I was first starting to compose, my high school choral director gave me a book of Sara Teasdale’s poems to write music to, and since then, I’ve fallen in love with her writing. This poem is so intriguing because of its power and confidence in living a life for love. In context with the title, the piece changes to a feeling of yearning that is nearly heartbreaking, which made me want to write this piece. 

I had first gotten the inspiration to write this piece from the stars, and the idea of looking up into the night sky in awe and wonder. Using this text, and reading the meaning behind it, I had formed this piece around the idea of someone looking up into the night sky in question, hoping to receive an answer.