Hailstork’s “Epitaph for a Man Who Dreamed” Can Help us Reflect and Aspire to MLK's Highest Ideals

It is Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. Given the events of this past year, and given the fact that we face a new incoming administration with new possibilities, I implore my readers to set aside some small amount of time from their busy day to reflect on this extraordinary man and the ideals of equality and brotherhood for which he paid the ultimate price fighting for. “Epitaph for a Man Who Dreamed” by Adolphus Hailstork (b. 1941) is an orchestral work that helped me get into the headspace necessary for that reflection and I hope that you may find it helpful as well.

This gorgeous work dedicated to Martin Luther King, Jr. carries a generally somber and contemplative tone throughout, but there are hopeful and uplifting moments as well. Be sure to listen for the delicate entrance of the harp at 5:31. I imagined this moment to represent Dr. King’s dream “that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed.” Also draw your ear to the bold way the piece finishes starting at 7:16. It begins out of thin air, but it becomes the loudest moment of the piece. I interpreted this ending as an urgent call to action.

Hailstork has stated that the piece “represents the graveside service of a great man. The mourners gather and sing a spiritual, the music gradually swelling as more people arrive and join in the singing. After reflecting on the hopes and dreams inspired by this leader, they lift their bowed heads and move to carry on the work he began.”

This work was beautifully performed by Chineke! Orchestra and conducted by Kalena Bovell. From their website: Chineke! was founded in 2015 by the double bass player, Chi-chi Nwanoku OBE, to provide career opportunities for young Black, Asian and ethnically diverse classical musicians in the UK and Europe. You can read more about the wonderful things they do and listen to more of their wonderful performances here.

Let us remember that our fates as American Citizens are tied together. If we limit the liberty, prosperity, and safety of any group based on their skin tone, creed, or financial status, the health of our nation as a whole suffers. That seems evident now given our current events, but that does not mean we are incapable of healing.