Night Into Dawn

Composed by: Theresa Wong

Year composed: 2023

Text by: Theresa Wong

Publisher: Orange Route

Commissioned: Commissioned by the PWC Year: 2023

Premiered: Premiered by the PWC Year: 2024

Duration: 7:45

Program Notes:

Dedicated to the community of Lahaina and to the singers of the Peninsula Women’s Chorus – that we may help each other to heal.

Composer's Notes:

Commissioned by the Peninsula Women’s Chorus Dr. Anne K. Hege, Artistic Director

This piece was written in response to my experience of being in Maui with family during the catastrophic hurricane and fire in August 2023. Reflecting on how communities operate in times of crisis, I wanted to delve into sounds and actions which examine the dynamics of care, improvisation, creativity, and communication. Throughout the piece, singers improvise within given parameters, requiring a heightened awareness amidst an unpredictable and ever-changing sonic surrounding. Melodies are juxtaposed with noise and textures to reflect the plural and contradictory nature of a crisis, in which alarm, uncertainty, and grief intertwine with the unexpected connection of generosity and care. My deepest thanks to Dr. Anne Hege, the community of PWC, and to the Herb Alpert and Ragdale Foundations for the opportunity to create this work. I dedicate this to the community of Lahaina and to the singers of the Peninsula Women’s Chorus – that we may help each other to heal. — Theresa Wong

Additional Notes

Vocal Parts: SSAA
Is a capella: Yes
Language: English

Text:

Stay side by side
This night is long
Hold a light
‘Till morning dawns