Don't Say a word

Instrumentation: Amplified voice and chamber orchestra (1.1.1.1-1.1.1.0-1 perc.-synth.-strings)

Arrangement also available for amplified voice, Pierrot ensemble, and percussion

Duration: 5 minutes 30 seconds

Recording: Available upon request

Commission: Knoxville Symphony Orchestra

Premiere: Annika Socolofsky (voice) & Knoxville Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Aram Demirjian on November 9, 2017 at The Standard in Knoxville, TN

Program Notes:

When I look around myself for an idea, when I feel as though I have nothing to work with, when I feel as though I am nothing, when I've been made to feel that I am nothing, I look to the strong women who surround me. Women's stories are tales of strength, perseverance, fire, and drive. And as the tides of history churn, gaining momentum, its no longer dangerous to declare: now it's our turn.

The text for the piece is: "Hush now, baby. Don't say a word. Now it's time for the women's turn."