Immigrations: New Place Like Home

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Recognizing that St. Louis is host and home to people of many nations, Equinox has created a dynamic musical and educational program that celebrates the changing "faces of St. Louis." Throughout the spring of 2010, Equinox will perform three public concerts and travel to 8 schools and educational centers where the population reflects the changing demographics of our region. The events include music from around the world from a variety of countries in Africa, Asia, South America, Europe and the Middle East.

At the heart of the spring events is the premiere of American Mosaic, by Gay Holmes Spears. A multi-movement work, her music celebrates the the joys, hardships and lives of immigrant persons to America. Spear's musical depictions tell their story from new beginnings to becoming a part of the mosaic of America, expressing the emotions of apprehension, hope and opportunity, and depicting various encounters and experiences, including difficulties, nostalgia and reflection of the old ways of life.

American Mosaic

by Gay Holmes Spears

Gay Spears, photo by Middendorf

The United States of America has been called a "melting pot" of persons from all corners of the globe. Some came to this country for economic reasons, some for religious reasons, some for other reasons, yet all had a dream which required them to leave home. Many were seeking greater freedom and opportunity than they had in their former countries, whether they arrived 400 years ago or four days ago. Spears' new work, American Mosaic, is inspired by the story of those leaving their homelands and finding another home - a musical story of immigration. Her musical depictions tell the story from new beginnings to becoming a part of the "mosaic of America," expressing the emotions of apprehension, joy, hope, nostalgia and reflections of the past.

I. The New Land

With its heroic horn opening, the first theme of this movement depicts whatever one perceives to be ideal about America. The second theme, slower and more poignant, represents apprehension, yet hope for better things in the new land.

II. The New Days

Moments of quiet introspection alternate with loud, angular, jagged sections, which represent anxiety, fear, and frustration as everyday difficulties present themselves to the immigrant person.

III. Remembering

There is a bittersweet quality in the music of this movement. Memories of the old home, old friends left behind, and the old ways are pondered and treasured.

IV. Belonging

This music begins in a bright and energetic manner, representing assimilation to the new life. Yet bits of former movements, transformed in various ways, appear in this part of the composition.

"May freedom, hope, justice, peace, and opportunity be the goals of the residents of the United States of America. May each one of us as an individual, and all of us, corporately, form a beautiful picture -- an American mosaic of people dedicated to pursuing these ideals."
GHS

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Immigrations Artwork - Original oil on canvas by Ann Homann

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