This piece was written in honor of April Brookins Duvic on the occasion of her retirement after having taught, and later directed, vocal studies at Clark College for over 25 years.  Her wisdom and guidance has enriched the lives of hundreds, if not thousands, of students thoughout her career.  It was obvious that this occasion required a gift befitting the honoree and reflected the gift she gave so many; the gift of song.

The poetry I chose to set in this piece perfectly encapsulates how April has positively affected the lives of her students.  Everyone I have spoken with has their own unforgettable moment in which April brightened a particularly gloomy day or said something which changed them forever.  It was the ambiguity inherent in the poem which enticed me the most as it can relate to each performer and each listener in the same way as they each reflect on their own personal moments.

Poetry by Lucy Maud Montgomery

Gratitude for mixed choir and piano (midi realization)

" ...simultaneously innovative, intellectually stimulating, but most of all emotionally moving." - Maria Choban, Oregon ArtsWatch

Gratitude for mixed choir and piano (midi realization)

Brandon Stewart