Although it was cut from the original 1939 film, this number from The Wizard of Oz is an energetic, swinging romp through one of the prominent dance crazes of the time period, and appears in many contemporary productions of the show. Rhythmic syncopation and chromatic jazz harmonies create a toe-tappin’, finger-snappin’ sensation that just begs […]
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In 1993, Maya Angelou recited this poem at the inauguration of President Bill Clinton, making her the first African American and the first female poet to deliver an inaugural recitation. Subsequently, Angelou’s audio recording of “On the Pulse of Morning” won a Grammy Award® for “Best Spoken Word” in 1994. Mark Hayes opens with a […]
from Like Dust I Rise
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A folk-like setting of Maya Angelou’s empowering poem, which compares a bird’s longing to be liberated with that of all people. Hayes chooses a minor key with plenty of harmonic tension and a walking tempo that suggests the footsteps of those who have come before. The final Picardy third is the ultimate symbol of freedom.
from Like Dust I Rise