Marques L.A. Garrett

The Lesson

This short work by Marques L. A. Garrett sets a beautiful and poignant text by Paul Laurence Dunbar that tells of the healing effects of music and how our own music-making can spread joy to those around us. The warm chordal texture and stirring harmonies bring to life the beautiful narrative of the poem. The Lesson was written for Choral Arts Ensemble, Rochester, MN.

Marques L. A. Garrett is an established conductor, educator, and composer whose works have been performed to acclaim by high school all-state, collegiate, and professional choirs, including Seraphic Fire and the Aeolians of Oakwood University. Awarded a PhD in Music Education (Choral Conducting) from Florida State University, Dr Garrett is an Assistant Professor of Music in Choral Activities at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. He also serves as artistic director and conductor of the Omaha Symphonic Chorus and as founding artistic director and conductor of the Nebraska Festival Singers.