Make Space for Life to Live features expansive yet accessible vocal lines perfect for the emerging choir negotiating the challenges of adolescent voice change. It offers compelling melodies and singable vocal lines interwoven with a piano accompaniment that make subtle allusions to the main theme. The addition of the optional baritone part allows this work to be flexible enough to be an attractive choice for a wide variety of choral situations. The work may be performed as 3pt mixed (omitting the baritone part) or as an SATB work with the inclusion of the baritone part throughout.
The text for this work was written while on an extended seashore retreat several years ago. It was the product of many long walks looking out into the vastness of the sea. It was a time in my life that was immediately preceded by great personal loss and turmoil. It was in that silence, and in that space I was able to reconnect to that still, small voice within that reminded me that I was merely a part of something much bigger than myself. The text was hewn from that experience is a reflection on the importance of allowing space in my daily life to experience the simple joy that every moment has to offer.
Optional narration . . .
Regardless of race or creed the abundance that is found in the reality of the present moment is augmented by regular exposure to the arts. The capricious nature of time in the age of immediacy is that it is entirely flexible. Experience suggests that exposure to natural beauty, such as watching sunrise unravel over the sea or a cloud formation sweep through a mountain range, allow an individual to feel part of something greater than themselves. Music has the ability to take time and slow it down, revealing to the participant their part in the whole. Taking part in choral music, whether as an audience member, singer, conductor, or composer, is an opportunity to slow down time long enough to allow the beauty of life to catch up with you.
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