story and photos by River Gartner
Spectrum is a collaboration between Nashville in Harmony and Intersection and is very successful. The two groups share the common goal in uniting people and creating community through music. It is a truly magical experience and a journey through sound.
The music ranged from Nashville in Harmony’s signature song to contemporary classical. From the work of Australia to civil rights songs of the 1960’s, Intersection brought a very unique and evocative song — VooDoo Child.
The sound style is a genre that most Nashvillians have never heard with instruments being used in ways that are uncommon to the ears. The bows of the violinist and cellist are used on the back of the instrument to produce a very unique sound. The vocalist for this number is incredible, producing an extremely guttural sound that is amazing.
The final number of the night however, is an emotional tour de force. A world debut, the piece is a musical journey through generations of gender identity, roles and expectations. A song was created around heart felt interviews from members of Nashville in Harmony with their stories of what it is like to be them and of gender expression. The words and feelings expressed are relatable to everyone in the audience. It is an extremely vulnerable and raw piece that places a spotlight on the fact that gender is on a spectrum. Gender is not linear of absolute. The vulnerability of those interviewed is inspiring.
If you have not heard of Nashville in Harmony or the musical stylings of Intersection, I highly recommend this show. It is one place were everyone in the audience feels included, welcome and safe. A place where one feels the inclusiveness of community.
