Scat/Rap Counterpoint (Solo)

This is the premiere of the solo version of Scat/Rap Counterpoint, performed in October, 2010 by the composer at her CD release party, for her flute/voice and percussion CD, Uncommon Time. The venue is Katerina’s, in Chicago, and the host is music critic Neil Tesser. The rap is presented in the form of spoken word; a costumed version with percussion is also on Youtube.

Scat/Rap Counterpoint presents various views of the dilemma in which American artists find themselves when they try to relate their work to their society. The issues are presented in the form of a rap dramatized by nine different characters, some of whom are treated seriously, and some, satirically. Each character advances the argument, albeit with frequent twists and turns; there are also clowns who appear briefly and mock the more serious characters, plus the appearance of a Special Guest.