“Redeem the Dream”
“Redeem the Dream” is based on Langston Hughes’ poem “Let America Be America Again”, written in 1935. The poem reflects on the gap between the ideals of American democracy as articulated in the Declaration of Independence and the reality experienced by many people over our history. Yet the poem ends with hope that America can live up to its promises of freedom, equality, and opportunity for all. The poet affirms that we the people can and will redeem the vision of America and make America what it is intended to be. Hughes’ poem is flanked by quotations from the Declaration of Independence and the Preamble to the Constitution.
About the Composer
Dr. Brandon A. Boyd is the Director of Choral Activities and Associate Professor of Choral Music Education at the University of Missouri, where he conducts the Concert Chorale Men’s Ensemble. In addition to his conducting duties, he teaches a variety of undergraduate and graduate courses in conducting and choral music education. He also appears regularly as a conductor, clinician, composer in residence, collaborative pianist, and lecturer for conferences, conventions, collegiate choirs, church choirs, choral festivals, and workshops.