Stellar (2024)
Orchestration: 2.2.2.2—4.2.2.Btbn.1—Timp.2 Perc—Hp—Pf(Cel)—Str
Duration: 2.5 minutes
Premiere: May 8, 2024, Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Chicago, IL.
Commissioned by the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Stellar is a short fanfare-prelude dedicated to the students of Morgan Park High School on Chicago’s South Side. Inspired by Dr. Mae Jemison—the first African American woman in space and a Morgan Park alum—the piece plays on the dual meaning of “stellar,” evoking both celestial brilliance and human excellence.