Two Songs

Description

This work was commissioned by the In Medio Chamber Choir directed by John Eisenmann (Portland, Oregon) and had its premiere performance in June 2026.

Born from deeply personal experience, Two Songs explores the enduring tension between fear and love that lies at the heart of parenting. It is ultimately a meditation on hope—that the songs of love we sing to our children will outlast our fears and sustain them throughout their lives.

The In Medio Chamber Choir were kind enough to let me use this recording from their June 2026 premiere performance. This recording is being used in advance of the album recording due out in the Fall of 2026.

Two Songs

When I was a young
mother I had
two songs:
one of terror,
one of love.

I hope I sang
one louder.
I hope I sang it
like a prayer.

Poetry by Sara Quin Rivara