I’m happy to announce a new project: a suite of pieces for solo cello and fixed electronics, commissioned by the amazing cellist Joann Whang. Confined in Everyday Scenes embarks on a profound musical journey, illuminating the hidden truths of modern-day slavery and human trafficking. Joann and I hope this music will raise awareness, challenge perceptions, and amplify the voices of survivors. Our goal is to ignite conversation and inspire change. We want the music to capture the tension between ordinary, everyday scenes and the hidden realities of exploitation that can exist beneath them, encouraging audiences to question the world around them and recognize what too often goes unseen.
Joann and I began discussing a collaboration back in 2021. She first presented the idea of creating music that addressed human trafficking. After we both read Laura T. Murphy’s insightful book Survivors of Slavery: Modern-Day Slave Narratives, we quickly realized that human trafficking is just one part of the broader issue of slavery. When the book was released in 2014, researchers estimated that there were 27 million enslaved people worldwide. Recent research now reports that the number has risen to 40–50 million.
We feel fortunate to have received support and guidance from Laura for this project. She is one of the world’s leading researchers on the subject of slavery, and we’re proud that our endeavour may encourage others to explore her work. Over the past few years, we’ve also been meeting with NGOs on the front lines, helping people leave lives of enslavement. We hope our music will help bring more attention to their vital efforts.
We would like to thank New Music USA, the Toronto Arts Council, and the Ontario Arts Council for providing the funds needed to create this new music.
And now, I begin composing! Joann and I will be workshopping the music throughout the winter, and a world premiere performance is planned for June 2026—more details to come soon.
Stay tuned to my social media channels, blog posts and e-newsletter for updates on our progress.
