Description
In 2023, I was commissioned by soprano Sarah Howes to write a collection of songs about the First Ladies of the United States. These songs are part of a larger project called “East Wing Songs,” which celebrates the lives and accomplishments of the First Ladies throughout American history. The concept for “East Wing Songs” was created by soprano Ann Marie Wilcox-Daehn, with the goal of commissioning and performing art songs about the First Ladies (and eventual first gentlemen) of our nation.
Volume III contains five songs for soprano and piano about the following First Ladies:
1. Abigail Adams
2. Dolley Madison
3. Mary Todd Lincoln
4. Eleanor Roosevelt
5. Laura Bush
Original poster from premiere on October 6, 2024.
Each of these remarkable women continues to inspire us today—from Dolley Madison’s Wednesday Night “Squeezes,” which united Washington, to Laura Bush’s commitment to the power of education. Each First Lady infused the White House with her unique beliefs and perspectives, shaping the nation alongside her husband’s presidency. Their stories—of resilience in the face of tragedy and of finding joy and hope while standing steadfast in their convictions—are a remarkable part of our nation’s history.
With the destruction of the East Wing in 2025, an important piece of history has been taken away from the American people, but the resilience and determination of the First Ladies will remain a part of the fabric of the country. Although the physical structure has been torn down, we can continue to celebrate the important work of the First Ladies and not allow their legacy to be erased.
With beautiful poems by Oliver Mayer that gives us a glimpse into interpreted moments in the First Ladies’ lives, we invite listeners to engage with history not just as a record of events, but as a living dialogue that continues to shape our present and future.
Watch the world premiere performance with Dr. Sarah Howes – soprano and Dr. Mary J. Trotter – pianist.
