Chamber Works

 [de]ance

Anonymous

Composed for and recorded by Hinge ensemble during their 2020  (virtual) Composition Residency at the University of Georgia Hugh Hodgson School of Music.
Hinge Ensemble is:
Philipp Stäudlin - saxophone
Dan VanHassel - electric guitar
Matt Sharrock - percussion
Keith Kirchoff - piano

Naturalization: Collective Identity

​Collective Identity is the second piece of the Naturalization cycle. This piece expresses my feelings and confusion about the process of being an Iranian-American and how the immigration process and cultural shock have affected my life as a composer and social activist. Naturalization is the process by which U.S. citizenship is granted to foreigners, and I started this process in 2018. I always thought that Naturalization would be just some paperwork, and that citizenship or a passport has nothing to do with who I am as a person! However, I am going through a very confusing period where I cannot simply define my identity. The best way to express my confusion about the whole process of being "American" is by writing several pieces about it. This trio focuses on my collective identity, and how my Iranian side incorporates with my new American side, and how my Iranian background dominates my musical language.

Sonic Apracity and Clare Longendyke premiered this piece at Chiesa della Maddalena, Alba, Italy during the Alba Music Festival Wet Ink Concert.

Naturalization: The Dual Identity

Naturalization is a collection of musical works about my experience as an immigrant in the United States. It explores individual viewpoints on cultural changes and shocks, and the emotions that come with them. The first piece, The Dual Identity, focuses on my new identity as a composer and how I'm incorporating new sounds and techniques. It starts with a dance-like rhythm, but the clear pattern quickly fades away, emphasizing that it's okay to feel uncomfortable.