christian cruz | composer | guitarist

so together

For: Solo Voice & Piano

Year: 2019

Time: 2'

Awards: Best Composition Award and Audience Choice Award (2020)

Premiere: February 28, 2020. California State University Fresno.

Christopher Rodriguez, baritone

Drew Quiring, piano

Description: so together is a poem written by Juan Felipe Herrera for the 2020 Fresno State Art Song Composition Competition. The text suggests themes of involuntary separation. While questioning the status quo, Herrera explores feelings of anxiety, wonder and resilience. the music reflects the change in perspective by shifting moods and tonal centers. While the poem finishes with a bit of hope, the reality of a possible solution is ambiguous. This piece recieved both the Best Composition Award and the Audience Choice Award.