H U S H

Hush, for flute and trombone, is inspired by the recent attack on reproductive healthcare and Buffy the Vampire Slayer. The title pays homage to an intense and chilling episode that exposes a group of beings known as the “Gentlemen” who steal the voices of the town to obtain the hearts of 7 individuals. Recently, 9 individuals stole the voices of millions of Americans and their right to healthcare. These numbers appear throughout the composition, along with the phonetics of “hush”, attempting to upset and silence the performers and steal their autonomy. This piece attempts to converge the events of the episode with the unbridled rage of this attack. As part of my ongoing research is to provide space for my own voice and the voices of the unheard, underserved, and underrepresented, this piece serves as a protest to these oppressive elements and suppressive opinions.

While music is a powerful means to escape or immerse yourself within, we must not avoid the real-world problems that live outside of these concerts. We must not be silenced, and we must take every opportunity to create inclusive choice for everyone. I could not be more humbled, and honored, to write a piece for these powerful women and to be a part of creating new repertoire for this duo.

 

 

Amendment I, Constitution of the United States of America

 

“Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or the press; or the right of the people to peaceably assemble; and to petition the government for a redress of grievances.”

 

 

We shall not be silenced.

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Written for flutist, Sophia Tegart and trombonist, Sarah Miller​

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