Meandering through all walks of musical life, violinist, violist, vocalist and composer Christina Courtin was deeply rooted in classical music at a very early age. She studied violin at Juilliard and continues to perform in The Knights, based in New York City. Alongside playing violin, Miss Courtin has developed a style of singing and writing that has lended itself to many welcomed opportunities. She has performed with such artists as Yo-Yo Ma, Dawn Upshaw, Don Byron, Teddy Thompson, Paula Robison, Kayne West, Mark O'Connor, Ryan Adams, Michael Ward-Bergeman, Brooklyn Rider, and Billy Martin. Christina is a recipient of the Charles Makish Award. She released her debut album of self-composed songs for Nonesuch Records in January 2009.
The composer provided the following notes on her new work, Story of Stone:
Story of Stone is a three-part song cycle that delves into themes of self-reflection, connection, and the passage of time. Through introspective lyrics and evocative melodies, Courtin paints a vivid portrait of the human experience.
Part I: Look At You, Wahoo
The cycle begins with Look At You, Wahoo, a contemplative piece that explores the delicate balance between tranquility and complacency. Courtin uses the imagery of a gray bird, the pigeon, to represent the often overlooked or underestimated aspects of oneself. The song suggests that external appearances can be deceiving, and that a quiet exterior may belie a depth of emotion and determination.
Part II: We Are A Quarry
In We Are A Quarry, Courtin shifts her focus to nostalgia and the enduring power of connection. Drawing inspiration from a Catholic hymn, she employs the metaphor of a quarry to symbolize the deep-rooted strength and shared experiences that unite us. The song evokes a sense of belonging and the timeless nature of human existence.
Part III: Lines Of Creation
The final piece, Lines Of Creation, is a poignant reflection on childhood, nostalgia, and the complexity of the human spirit. Courtin explores the idea that we are all multifaceted beings, capable of holding contradictory emotions and experiences within ourselves. The song celebrates the diversity of human nature and the enduring power of memory.