The Listening

“The Listening,” written by Grammy-nominated composer Cheryl B. Engelhardt in December 2017 for VOICES 21C under the artistic direction of André de Quadros, draws its inspiration from Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s impactful 1967 speech, “Beyond Vietnam: A Time to Break Silence.” This dynamic, emotion-filled piece expresses King's call to end societal silence. The rhythmic elements in the piece are derived from the poetic nature of King's speech. The inclusion of a children's choir, inspired by the Parkland school shooting and subsequent protests, symbolizes the disruption of childhood peace by violence. Notably, the virtual collaboration, featuring Donzaleigh Abernathy, Dr. King's goddaughter, emphasizes the song's contemporary relevance in addressing social issues, and was featured in PEOPLE. Premiered live at the Massachusetts Music Educators Conference in 2018 by VOICES 21C, and digitally released during Black History month in 2021, “The Listening” stands as a profound anthem for breaking silence and to foster positive change.