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Song of Miriam

There Was a Time inside music_edited.jpg

for SSA Chorus and Piano

Text by Rabbi Ruth Sohn
Elaine Hagenberg Music - EH1001

Description

Inspired by the empowering poem by Rabbi Ruth Sohn, this piece describes the journey of a young woman who finds bravery amid uncertainty and fear. Middle Eastern harmonies paint an expansive desert landscape, while the voices search for faith and risk taking the first step, ultimately conquering fear to find the "song in my heart." Soaring melodies and choral rhythms that create a delicious tension against the piano accompaniment make this a wonderful choice for mature treble choirs.



the Inspiration

Text

I stand at the sea and turn to face the desert stretching endless and still. My eyes are dazzled The sky brilliant blue Sunburnt sands unyielding white. My hands turn to dove wings. My arms reach for the sky and I want to sing the song rising inside me. My mouth open I stop. Where are the words? Where the melody? In a moment of panic My eyes go blind. Can I take a step Without knowing a Destination? Will I falter Will I fall Will the ground sink away from under me? The song still unformed— How can I sing? To take the first step— To sing a new song— Is to close one’s eyes and dive into unknown waters, For a moment knowing nothing risking all— But then to discover The waters are friendly The ground is firm. And the song— the song rises again. Out of my mouth come words lifting the wind. And I hear for the first time the song that has been in my heart silent unknown even to me. - Rabbi Ruth Sohn

Composer Notes

“My arms reach for the sky...
 I want to sing...”

- Rabbi Ruth Sohn

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