Orchestral Works
Kamala’s Hope
Chamber music inspired by Senator Kamala Harris's acceptance speeches of August 2020.
San Francisco Girl’s Chorus
October 21, 2022
SF Jazz
San Francisco, CA
Shawnette Sulker, Soprano
Emil Miland, Cello
Jerome Lenk, Organ
September 6, 2020
Mission Delores Basilica
San Francisco, CA
Composer’s Notes by Candace Forest
I composed “Kamala’s Hope” at the suggestion of cellist Emil Miland, who contacted me the day Kamala Harris was announced as running mate for Joe Biden. After considerable research, I composed a trio for soprano, cello and organ with a libretto based on the text of the two acceptance speeches Senator Harris delivered in August, 2020. Central to the libretto are Senator Harris’ words on the core values of equal justice under law and freedom as well as her vision for America. Her “call to action” is presented twice with the first passage sung a capella for clarity. The listener takes a rhythmic, tonal and philosophical journey, ending appropriately on an unresolved chord.
“Kamala’s Hope” – Oakland Salutes Madame Vice President
For Immediate Release
Libretto
Adapted by Candace Forest from Kamala Harris’ speeches of 8.12.20 and 8.19.20
Justice for the People
Justice under law
“Equal justice for us all!”
The generations’ call
Hear the cries for justice
It’s a song you can’t forget
Calling out for freedom, dignity, respect
Committed to a vision where everyone is welcome,
No matter what we look like, deserving of compassion
No matter where we come from, no matter who we love
Let’s fight with hope and confidence and commitment to each other
To the America we know is possible
Because none of us are free until all of us are free