Program #3: HOT WRK ENSEMBLE SPEAKS TRUTH TO POWER

Truth to Power is a high-energy, genre-bending musical journey that amplifies voices of resilience, justice, civil rights, and cultural celebration. Through dynamic arrangements and original works for chamber trio—featuring saxophones, violin, and percussion—Hot Wrk Ensemble weaves together contemporary classical compositions, jazz, blues, and reimagined pop anthems. Expect an uplifting, thought-provoking performance that honors historical icons, celebrates modern pioneers, and invites listeners of all generations to reflect on the power of music as a catalyst for change.

Music has always been one of humanity’s most powerful tools for truth-telling. Truth to Power bridges the gap between classical artistry, historical storytelling, and mainstream culture. By bringing together speeches from national icons, tributes to unsung heroes, and the grooves of modern pop and jazz legends, Hot Wrk Ensemble creates an inclusive, intergenerational experience. Whether honoring the legacy of Juneteenth or celebrating the unstoppable energy of Beyoncé, this program demonstrates how art can spark dialogue, inspire hope, and bring communities together.

Program Includes:

There But for the Grace, Lois Hicks-Wozniak

This evocative opening work pairs live chamber instrumentation with recorded spoken-word excerpts from Michelle Obama. The piece reflects on empathy, privilege, and shared humanity, creating a poignant dialogue between the spoken words of the former First Lady and the emotional depth of the acoustic ensemble.

Police State Blues, Lois Hicks-Wozniak

Rooted in the rich tradition of the blues—a genre born from resistance and truth-telling—Police State Blues uses sharp rhythmic drives and soulful melodies to comment on systemic tension, accountability, and the struggle for justice.

Play Mass, Shabaka Hutchings, arr. J. Brooks Marcus

Originally crafted by visionary British-Barbadian composer and multi-instrumentalist Shabaka Hutchings, Play Mass draws inspiration from Caribbean carnival culture, spiritual jazz, and West African rhythms. Arranged for Hot Wrk Ensemble by J. Brooks Marcus, this piece bursts with vibrant, trance-like energy and collective celebration.

Katherine Johnson, Brad Hubbard

A musical homage to Katherine Johnson, the pioneering NASA mathematician whose calculations were critical to the success of the first U.S. crewed spaceflights. Brad Hubbard’s composition captures Johnson’s brilliance, precision, and trail-blazing legacy through soaring melodic lines and intricate rhythmic patterns.

Where is the Love?, Black Eyed Peas, arr. Hicks-Wozniak

Originally released in 2003 as a response to global conflict and social division, this iconic hip-hop/pop anthem remains as relevant today as ever. Hicks-Wozniak’s arrangement reinterprets the song’s infectious hook and urgent message, transforming it into a rich chamber experience that invites the audience to sing and groove along.

Juneteenth Suite, arr. by Lois Hicks-Wozniak

*Specially curated for June celebrations or Black History Month programming

The Juneteenth Suite is an immersive narrative and musical work commemorating June 19, 1865—the day the last enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas learned of their freedom. Through historical spoken narration seamlessly woven with soulful spirituals, original motifs, and triumphant themes, the suite honors the long journey toward liberation, joy, and perseverance.

Freeze Dreams, Gwen Laster

Written by acclaimed violinist and composer Gwen Laster, Freeze Dreams is a striking, rhythmically captivating piece. The composition balances sound exploration and improvisation with frozen, suspended textures sudden bursts of kinetic energy, portraying the tension between delayed dreams and unstoppable action.

Long Live Queen Bey, Beyoncé Knowles-Carter, arr. Hicks-Wozniak

Long Live Queen Bey pays tribute to pop icon Beyoncé Knowles-Carter. Merging the regal celebration of Black culture found in "Black Parade" with the raw, uncompromising drive of "Freedom," this suite showcases the full sonic power of Hot Wrk Ensemble, sending audiences off with an unforgettable burst of joy and empowerment.