Jacob Ward

Pavane pour un agneau (2021-22) was composed for Kehinde Wiley’s Saint Francis of Assisi (2008, oil wash and graphite on paper), and seeks to imitate the classical nature of his portrait within a musical context. The pavane, traditionally a processional dance in 16th century Europe, re-interprets late-baroque/early-classical styles into a neo-impressionistic soundscape with Jazz influences. The Agneau, meaning “lamb” in French, refers to the subject of the portrait, whom the piece compares to Jesus Christ (known as “the Lamb” in Christian mythology). The piece begins and finishes without resolution, echoing the grim reality that Black Americans face on a daily basis. Commissioned by a joint project between University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre, and Dance and University of Michigan Museum of Art. Recording by Matt Albert and performed by Liz Ames.