Vanisha Gould -vocals
Chris McCarthy -piano
John Sims -bass
Special guest Harriet Rautio -dancer
“The writing process for this commission has been as rewarding as it has been difficult. As it should be. It has required me to dig deep for inspiration, and to look at certain life experiences through the lens of a composer.
I start with the melody and lyrics first. I do not touch the piano until the entire idea of the song (melody and lyrics) is complete. Picture me walking down the street, no earphones. No distractions except for the random happenings I see around me. With no piano around, I am completely free to create without rules.
Once the idea is complete, I transcribe the idea into my beloved war torn journal, it’s falling apart at the seams. Only then do I sit at the piano, my love and my enemy - and begin the final stage of partnering that melody with chords. I live without a computer. My life is longhand. All of my charts are handwritten, God bless my band.
I’ve been inspired by so many people and places for this series. “I Grew Mad” is inspired by the numerous interrogation interviews I’ve watched over the past few months.
“Real Estate Agent Love Song” literally describes my apartment and the love I have for it. Really, it’s a real estate agent describing her love for her husband through the amenities of the apartment and it’s one of the first songs I wrote for this commission.
I can’t wait to describe my inspiration for the rest of these tunes on stage. Again, as difficult as it has been, it has been incredibly rewarding. And not just because it’s music, but I feel so proud for this opportunity. I cannot wait to share these stories (songs) this weekend with everyone.”