A Place in the World

A song of hope, composed for the Waubonsee Community College Chorale, Sugar Grove, IL.

A version for Mixed Choir is available here.

The composer writes...

"A Place in the World" sets a text that fervently expresses a need for peaceful cooperation in the world and, in particular, in our own nation. The point here is really a plea for all of us to find common ground that builds on and celebrates every individual person's unique qualities.

The music spans several levels of complexity, building from the almost childlike introduction to the climactic polytonal structures of the piano interlude about two-thirds of the way through. This change in harmonic language reflects the simple ideal of the subject matter, yet the very serious implications if we do in fact fail finding a way to get along. Several modulations are used throughout, not only to build interest, but also to move us to the next step in this text's stream of thought. The song closes simply, like the beginning, but transformed by just a bit of hope.

Text
In the corner of my mind I can see a place Where no one needs to hide.
Where ideals of a generation's hope are met with understanding and and held onto with pride.
Treasured stories of a sov'reign nation show a people who once rose above raging storms in a troubled world.
There can be cause to end a fruitless search Where hunger, war and greed relentlessly hang on.
Ambitious minds choose power over song: But I know this place exists!
So now with open fists I turn my blinded eyes toward the sun and hear the silent tune a thousand million strong!
Reaching out beyond my thoughts now I face the world the world Knowing there's a cost, Giving up just when that hope begins anew.
If you know this place And dare to see it too, I could share this world with you.