NOTES ON THE ALBUM

Discovering the essence of an album is one of the hardest, most riveting parts of building a recording project. What do we as artists want to say? What do we need to say? What does this album say about who we are and where we fit (or don’t fit)? How can we use this platform to highlight and address inequalities and injustices in our industry and world? These are the questions that we considered, studied, and debated while developing the concept for this album and the repertoire that followed.

No Choice but Love is an album that seeks to highlight diverse LGBTQIA+ voices and perspectives. As members of that community, Madeline and I wanted to pay homage to the beautiful, difficult history of the LGBT+ community within the classical music world by featuring the many talented living and passed LGBT+ composers. It was fundamental to us that as much of our artistic team as possible was a part of the community we were seeking to represent and celebrate, so we assembled and welcomed an unbelievably talented, dynamic team, including our producer Rebecca Folsom and our photographer, Jaclyn Simpson, to join in our efforts.

We believe that music is a means of expression, an alternative lens through which to interpret reality, and a healing force. We know that we must use our voices to be advocates for those whose voices are ignored or can’t be heard. We as artists must utilize our gifts to be catalysts for change, empowering our networks, and inspiring them to do what they never thought possible.

In today’s hurting world, where so many are discriminated against on the street, in the classroom, in their doctor’s office, in the courtroom, and by the legislature, we hope to inspire everyone to open their ears and listen more, open their eyes and see more, open their minds and learn more, and most importantly, open their hearts and love more.

With No Choice but Love,

Eric and Madeline