Resonance Commissions | Seven Prayers: Hope for Everyone
Video of this performance coming later this year!
Commission information
Composer: Dave Ragland
Text: Ethan Freeman, Nikymba Warren (Kymmie), Rev. Francisco Garcia, Rev. Becca Stevens, Joe Cantrell, Grace Ragland, Dave Ragland
Conductor: Shohei Kobayashi
Duration: 12’00”
Instrumentation: SATB + piano
Performances:
The Blacknificent 7 (November 17, 2024) - world premiere
Commission story
The Blacknificent 7 concert was curated by composer Damien Geter as a concert of choral works by all seven members of the Blacknificent 7 - a group of leading composers from across the United States.
As part of this special curation, Resonance commissioned B7 composer Dave Ragland to write a new work and appear in-person to connect with our community. Ragland sought out reflections on life, faith, and hope, using the perspectives of seven people from across the United States, ranging in age from 11 to "80-something.” These reflections included Ragland’s own family, as well as Portland’s own Joe Cantrell - a long-time friend and collaborator of Resonance Ensemble.
Composer Dave Ragland
About Seven Prayers: Hope for Everyone
Composer Dave Ragland
This cycle weaves together seven short reflections on life and hope, each narrated from the unique perspective of diverse individuals across the United States.
Through the voices of individuals of various ages, genders, and ethnicities, the cycle captures a rich tapestry of experiences and aspirations. Each reflection, while distinct, converges on the universal themes of resilience, unity, and the enduring human spirit, offering a hopeful vision for the future.
This work is intended to serve as a testament to the power of collective hope and the shared human experience.
program note by Dave Ragland