For my friend, DeShaun Gordon-King and the North Carolina Youth Wind Ensemble.
Black Petals was conceived as a commentary on racial issues in America today. The title and its concept were given to me by Mr. Gordon-King, and as a composer who has multiple racial and ethnic backgrounds- appearing racially ambiguous and often mislabeled by others- I related wholeheartedly.
Why is it that, in 2018, most orchestras are only programming the music of white composers? Why are black people still disproportionately treated unfairly in the eyes of law enforcement compared to their white counterparts?
Socially there is still some divide as well. For example, too many potential suitors on dating apps will cite racial preferences.
The music of Black Petals takes influence from these often marginalized demographics: simultaneously celebrating diversity while lamenting the current state of affairs. The resulting score is one that often feels both purposely uncertain and angry, while embracing moments of optimism. Musical ideas are inspired by hip hop (as seen in sections with beatboxing flute), EDM (speciďŹ cally tribal house), and Asian music theory.
flute multiphonic ďŹ ngerings and images from www.flutecolors.com/ďŹ nd-multiphonics/