Program Note:

Mahatma Mohandas Gandhi (1869-1948) was a lawyer, anti-colonialist, and political ethicist whose advocation of nonviolent resistance as a political leader played a significant role in the independence of India. He had four sons. The words I chose to adapt (slightly) and to set for treble (or children’s) chorus are: “If we are to teach real peace, we shall have to begin with children. And, if they will grow up in their natural innocence, we won’t have to struggle; until at last, the corners of the world are covered with that peace and love, every corner of the world is pure.” The piece was completed on 7 October 1997 in New York City and originally published by Roger Dean before finally settled into the Janet Galván Roots and Wings for Treble Choirs series at Carl Fischer.