When writing Waiting to Exhale, I tried to convey a sense of constant motion and excitement for the listener. I drew inspiration from the Dave Matthews Band, attempting to capture their intense energy and subtle yet distinct harmonic sensibilities. With its relentless 16th note motor, this piece relies heavily on interlocking rhythmic cells to create a larger, composite rhythm.

Originally written in 2017 for a small jazz combo consisting of vibraphone, steel pan, marimba, upright bass, and drum set, I felt there was a lack of rhythmic and timbral clarity among the instruments. In early 2019, I re-orchestrated the piece for marimba quartet, resulting in tighter rhythmic precision and a homogenous color.

I Still Believe in Our City is inspired by Amanda Phingbodhipakkiya’s public art campaign with the NYC Commission on Human Rights, which addresses a prominent and disturbing trend of anti-Asian racism during the COVID-19 crisis. Her vibrant artwork celebrates the many contributions of Asian Americans to New York City, “from working the frontlines as essential workers to building coalition with the Black Lives Matter movement.” I Still Believe in Our City begins with a sense of mystery, wonder, and hidden strength. A theme of three reoccurring notes, chords, and patterns echo throughout the piece. This represents the Atlanta shooting that took place on March 16, 2021, where 8 Asian Americans were murdered at three different spas. The musical pattern is first introduced as soft and understated, reflective of Asians being stereotyped as docile, quiet, and submissive. As the piece progresses, this theme becomes bold and unapologetic. The titles of Amanda’s artwork, which are dedicated to the AAPI, have been written into the

performers’ sheet music to guide their interpretation. In order, these titles are “May We Know Our Own Strength”, “Stand With Us”, “I Still Believe”, “We Are More”, and “I Still Believe in Our City”. However, the solo section is left without a title, representing a spirit of individuality and interpretation through the jazz and blues tradition. These musical styles were born out of the African-American struggle for freedom in a time of great hardship and oppression. In I Still Believe in Our City, jazz and blues is intertwined with modern musical elements, showing that the fight for racial equality and peace is still very much a part of our society today.

"I Still Believe In Our City" Public Art Campaign