To Love, is to Act (Aimer C’est Agir)

To Love Is to Act (Aimer C’est Agir) for Alto Flute & Vibraphone by Nicole Chamberlain

Score and parts

Commissioned by Matthieu Clave

Duration 5’30”

Extended Techniques: Flute-Pizzicato, Beat Boxing Syllables, Pitch Bends, Foot Stomps; Vibraphone-Pitch Bends, Foot Stomps

To Love, Is to Act was commissioned by Matthieu Clave for The Soundscape Series, a classical music concert series in three movements designed to inspire, enlighten, and educate.  This piece was commissioned specifically for the final concert in the series call “New Works” – Under Construction” which was a reflection on the progress accomplished in terms of social change, and the work ahead of us that remains.  Like music, building bridges and changing habits require perseverance.

“To Love, Is to Act” is believed to be the final words of French author and activist Victor Hugo.  It was Hugo’s life work to shine in order to truly love one another, we must get involved.  Sometimes getting started is challenging and small, but over time momentum can build to create change not only for ourselves, but more importantly for others who desperately need it.