Performing Memories is a piece for solo speaking pianist, written and composed by Michael Park. In recounting the first time he looked inside various objects from his past, the narrator takes the audience on a journey of self-discovery through themes of isolation, shame, fear and death; but also exploration, joy, love and belonging. In collaboration with director Esteban Guti, a film version of the piece was created incorporating performance footage, dramatic reenactment, and illustration/animation by Héctor Rivera. The film can be viewed here: vimeo.com/792410812.
Performing Memories (2021)
The first time I looked inside…
Text and music: Michael J Park
TRACKS
- A grand piano
- Any piano
- That box
- My mother’s jewellery box
- My parents’ nightstand
- A nudie magazine
- My grandma’s jewellery box
CREDITS
All tracks performed by Michael J Park.
Performing Memories was recorded at The Annex in Vancouver by Garry Checora May 15, 2021.
All tracks mixed and mastered by Edwin Dolinski.
Album Artwork by Chelsea Stuyt
Thank you to the British Columbia Arts Council for supporting me in composing this work, and to Elee Kraljii Gardiner for such incredible guidance.
Thank you to the Canada Council for the Arts for supporting me in bringing this piece to life through film, and to Veda Hille, Esteban Guti, and Héctor Rivera for lifting my creation beyond what I had imagined.
Performing Memories is available from:
Redshift Records 