Heritage

This epic work evokes moods, events, and sounds, including West African drumming and indigenous melodies, inspired by an ethnomusicological research visit to Nigeria. A primary musical theme is an adaptation of a song from the Esan people, a small ethnic group in the southern part of Nigeria. At various moments in the work, the musicians chant from an Esan song that translates as "My investment in you is paid off. Because of your hard work, your future is bright."