Description
Inspired by the heartfelt quote, “When given the choice between being right and being kind, choose kind,” “Choose Kindness” is a stunningly emotive piece for String Orchestra. With its grand musical build-ups and intricate motivic development, this composition seamlessly transitions from a slow, introspective introduction into an emotionally powerful climax.
Program Notes
When I was asked to write this work, my life was a whirlwind of events that seemed, in some way, interconnected. I had just returned from a trip to Canada, where I moved my grandmother. My grandfather had passed away exactly one year before we settled her into her new apartment. Both of my grandparents grew up in Quebec and later immigrated to America, where they became U.S. citizens before having my mother. My grandmother, who speaks English well, though with some difficulty, found herself somewhat isolated in America-1,200 miles from her immediate family and separated from her French-speaking relatives by an international border, which, at 85, is a dwindling list.
We were fortunate to finally move her closer to her roots, but the experience was bittersweet as it increased the distance between us. However, witnessing her joy at reuniting with old friends, forming new connections, and finding solace from the loneliness of losing the partner she shared over 60 years of marriage with was a true kindness and a blessing.
Throughout this challenging period, I found inspiration in the commissioning school’s use of the quote: “When given the choice between being right and being kind, choose kind.” This sentiment resonated deeply with the decision to relocate my 85-year-old grandmother to a foreign country, where we wouldn’t be able to reach her quickly if something went awry. Whether the decision was right remains uncertain, but we chose kindness. This became the title of my work because, at the end of the day, choosing kindness seemed to be the most important thing.
As a child, I spent summers on my grandfather’s land in Quebec, surrounded by the frontier of mountains and valleys, breathing in the fresh air, and soaking in the stunning scenery. I wanted to capture the essence of Texas’s frontier, inspired by the similar beauty I found in Canada, and convey an old Western feel.
I hope that life greets you with kindness and that you, in turn, choose kindness whenever possible.
-Tyler Arcari
