Yet Unheard (Chamber Version)

“What happened to Sandra Bland?” is a question that has been repeated without a satisfactory answer. The mystery and the tragedy of what happened to Sandra Bland brings up complicated questions. What is the value of black lives in our society? What can be done to have a sense of justice for the lives affected by police brutality? As vocalist, composer, and activist Abbey Lincoln asked, “who will revere the Black woman?” As an artist, the best way for me to deal with emotions brought on by these questions is through music. Through music, my aim was to mourn the tragedy of what happened to Sandra Bland and her unfinished contributions to the world, and yet to celebrate the strength of her spirit, and to recognize her humanity. Collaboration was a very important element in the creation of Yet Unheard for orchestra, chorus, and soloist Helga Davis. At the beginning of the process, founder of The Dream Unfinished, Eun Lee, and I discussed the direction for the piece. Over several months, poet Sharan Strange and I collaborated on the intention, direction, and elements of the piece, confirming that we were in sync every step of the way. Vocalist Helga Davis collaborated with Sharan Strange and me on musical interpretation of the poem. After composing the piece, my conversations with conductor James Blachly on the intention of the piece were important in the final stages of the physical manifestation of the piece. We all felt a need to honor Sandra Bland in a meaningful way, and the performance represents our efforts. The chamber version of Yet Unheard remains true to the original composition, yet with a greater focus on the individual voices. “What Sandy Speaks wants to do is let my kings and queens know, ‘you can do it, we can be successful, it is up to us.’ I love you all dearly. I hope you have a great day. I hope you have a successful and prosperous day. Do what is necessary to establish your kingdom and queendom, and just be great! Go out there and be the greatest thing that you can, and I guarantee it will turn your life around. Sandy speaks.” – Sandra Bland, Sandy Speaks podcast