AbstractsLanguage, Literature & Linguistics

22 is a series of six programmatic compositions. The extra-musical narrative deals with the fact that twenty-two veterans commit suicide each day, a low estimate by some accounts. The music is written not specifically for veterans but to bring attention to veterans. It is important for all Americans to know the plight of those who have served their country and now are marginalized by the same country they swore to defend with their lives. Many veterans’ lives have been horrifically changed by war and those battle scars are now internal. Music is the best way that I can explain the complex emotions and story of veterans to a non-veteran audience. This music is intended to inform society of veteran suicides, not make a moral judgment against veterans or civilian society but to bring to light the story as it is. The music is instrumental so the weight of words will not interfere with how the listener interprets the music.