Of Equality
for Treble Voices, Piano, and Optional Flute and/or Violoncello
Text by Walt Whiman2016 ca. 3:30
Of Equality
Program Notes
Of Equality was commissioned by the Connecticut Children’s Choir of The Hartt School Community Division (Noah Glynn, Director). I originally came across the main text for the work— a brief fragment by Walt Whitman—in the summer of 2015 when I was looking for poetry to set in a different composition. I originally thought I might include that short poem in a set of songs about social issues, but Whitman’s words captivated me so much that I ended up using only that one, short text for the entire piece, which is about thirteen minutes long. That wasn’t enough, though! I kept hearing the text sung by a choir in my head, so I approached the administration of the Community Division about a possible collaboration with the Connecticut Children’s Choir. I wanted to go beyond just setting the words to music and really engage with the students about the issue of equality. The composition thus includes not only Whitman’s poem but also additional text inspired by discussions with members of the Prelude, Canticum, and Concert Choirs. Their words and ideas shaped the piece, and I am so thankful I was given the opportunity to work with these bright, talented young singers!
Text
Of equality—As if it harmed me, giving others the same chances and rights as myself—as if it were not indispensable to my own rights that others possess the same.
- Walt Whitman, from Leaves of Grass Giving others food and clean water, Giving shelter and support, Giving help, Giving kindness, Giving respect, Giving peace, safety, and education, Giving hope and inspiration, Giving love, Giving freedom, Equality.
- Jessica Rudman, based on discussions with the Prelude, Canticum, and Concert Choirs
Performance Notes
• The work can be performed with all three choirs, with any pair of choirs, or with any one choir by itself.
• The flute and violoncello parts are optional. They are not necessary when all three choirs’ parts are performed, but may still be included. They are highly encouraged if only one choir is performing, as they often fill gaps that may occur without the other choirs present.
• The piano accompaniment should always be performed.
Email: jessica@jessicarudman.com | Website: www.jessicarudman.com
Composer Contact Information
