Who I Want to Be

Description

Soprano 1, Soprano 2, Alto, Piano — This text came to me in the fall of 2020 while teaching at Crosby High School in Crosby, Texas. My students, though enthusiastic to be back in Choir, were struggling to cope with the civil unrest around them, in addition to the pandemic. When considering how I could help them navigate this time, I realized that they were in need of some sort of consistency, of feeling grounded in themselves. In our time of focus on our building of community and citizenship, this text and tune came to mind - each phrase highlighting an element of personal and community wellness.I lead with my spiritxa0keeping love in the circle around me. (Social)Expressing my spirit (Occupational)Loving what I can see and cannot see, I'll take care of the vessel I am in (Physical)I love with me that's under the skin (Emotional)Taking care of my mind (Intellectual)Envisioning the me I want to be(Spiritual)I had the honor of collaborating with composer/educator Saleel Menon to create the beautiful piano accompaniment and SSA setting.Who I Want to Be opens with a solo functioning as a mantra throughout the tune. As the piece continues, voices join in unison and harmony to emphasize the intent.When the repeats in mm. 48-51 occur, invite students to share some of their own mantras and affirmations, or feel free to borrow from the words my students in the Crosby HS choir inspired me to write:Allow yourself graceI am persistentI am fragile, not brokenYou we worthy of successI am worthyThe only validation I need is my ownI believe in myself - love your truthI’m lost, just waiting to be foundI see youIt’s okay to not be okayBreatheI love and I am lovedPrepare yourself for not only a powerful performance, but a rewarding experience and conversations with your students.THIS is the piece you want stuck in your students’ heads! Coty Raven Morris' inspiring Who I Want to Be, arranged by Saleel Menon, is ideal for treble choirs of all abilities. Certain to be empowered by the rich messages found within and with solo or small group opportunities, your treble choir will love learning and performing this coming-of-age piece!

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