Chase the Stars (2015)

soprano, rapper, flute, clarinet, string quartet, vibraphone, glockenspiel, piano, electric guitar, bass, and drums 

Duration: 7′

Text from poem “Ah! Why, Because the Dazzling Sun” by Emily Brontë (1818-1848)
Original lyrics by rapper Rasar Amani (not listed in score)

Click HERE to view a PDF of the score (text located on second page)

Chase the Stars was written for the NYC-based ensemble ShoutHouse December 10, 2015. The recording above was featured on Bellor’s debut album STAY (2016) featuring Jennifer Bellor (soprano), Rasar Amani (rapper) and UNLV performers.

“Powerful from the very beginning, Bellor’s gorgeously haunting vocals hypnotizes in “Chase the Stars” like a seemingly innocent mermaid who will later capture you with no intentions of bringing you back. It is a bold and avant-garde juxtaposition of two genres—opera and rap.” – No Depression

“For those who prefer contemporary jazz with a twist, “Chase the Stars” is an absolute must.” – JazzCorner

It was a 2016 winner of The American prize in the orchestral category.

There are also jazz instrumental versions of Chase the Stars. Click HERE for more details.