Program Note:

One of the greatest joys of being a composer is writing for friends, and I feel especially fortunate that my closest friends are extraordinary musicians whose artistry I deeply admire. Among them is pianist Chelsea de Souza, my best friend for many years, with whom I have shared countless projects and an ever-growing musical bond. When we began imagining this piece together, it felt natural to create something that would capture the essence of our friendship: a journey through music we love and memories we hold dear.

e music traces songs that have shaped our friendship: Earth, Wind & Fire’s September, recalling our first meeting in the fall; the songs of Tom Misch, which became the soundtrack to our drives through Houston; and Boyz II Men’s End of the Road, a karaoke favorite that now carries the bittersweet resonance of leaving Houston and closing one chapter of our lives together.

As we grow older and live farther apart, I find myself beginning conversations with Chelsea with the words, “Do you remember?” ose words are proof of the many memories we’ve made—moments we want to hold close and never forget—and also a hope for all the memories yet to come. And, of course, they happen to open one of the
most iconic pop songs ever written: Do you remember…?

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– Nicky Sohn