2015


Dream Variations

Composed by Brandon J Spencer
"Dream Variations" is a song by Brandon J. Spencer that sets text by Langston Hughes.

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Dream Variations
Tyrese Byrd, tenor; Joshua Marzan, piano2:33

Brandon J. Spencer

Composer

Langston Hughes

Poet(s)/Writer(s)

2022

Date

Ann Arbor, Michigan

Location

This recording was part of a concert during the American Song Institute 2022, which took place on the campus of the University of Michigan.

Dream Variations
Samantha Rose Williams, mezzo-soprano; Sara Chiesa, piano2:30

Brandon Spencer

Composer

Langston Hughes

Poet(s)/Writer(s)

2021

Date

Ann Arbor, Michigan

Location

This recording was made possible by a grant from the University of Michigan, as part of the "Black Composer Speaks" Project.

Text

“Dream Variations”

Text by Langston Hughes

 

To fling my arms wide
In some place of the sun,
To whirl and to dance
Till the white day is done.
Then rest at cool evening
Beneath a tall tree
While night comes on gently,
    Dark like me—
That is my dream!

To fling my arms wide
In the face of the sun,
Dance! Whirl! Whirl!
Till the quick day is done.
Rest at pale evening . . .
A tall, slim tree . . .
Night coming tenderly
    Black like me.

Sheet Music