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Standing Upright - Concert Band, Grade 5
In Standing Upright, I narrate my own experiences as a chronically ill person, and the ways in which I am forced to interact with society. During the 2020 COVID - 19 pandemic, the phrase "the disabled and elderly" was commonly used by news stations, health care providers, and other figures in positions of authority to refer to the most vulnerable populations. As the pandemic continued and more at-risk lives were lost, I realized how little the people surrounding me truly cared about the disabled and elderly people in their lives. Most people will experience some type of disability and/or symptoms of growing old, whether it be the use of crutches for a short period, or some long-term chronic illness. Yet, society deems chronically ill and disabled populations as minorities, and therefore, unworthy of accommodation. I want this piece to exist not only as a chronicle of my own experiences, but also to envision a world in which disability is seen as a natural aspect of the human experience. 

Supported by the St. Olaf CURI Project. Premiered on November 13th, 2021 by the St. Olaf Band.