Sometimes I catch myself thinking that everyday life seems to disappear into the endless stream of events and changes. In moments when the world faces global crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, art interacts with reality and becomes an important source of emotional support and understanding of what is happening around us. This year marks the fifth anniversary of the first lockdown, and for that reason Thomas Hewitt Jones is releasing the song “Can You Hear Me?”, recorded during the lockdown as a vivid example of how art can respond to unsettling realities and bring people together.
The lyrics, written by Matt Harvey, express personal experiences during global isolation, a time when many wondered: can we hear each other in moments of pain and fear? Can we hear the call for solidarity even in the darkest times? In “Can You Hear Me?” loneliness is united with an undying spark of hope, merging into one in the bright flow of musical texture. This piece is about despair, but also about how important it is to find the strength not only to survive, but also to help others.
The multi-layered orchestration, initially focused on the vocal line, is refracted through the connections between the soloists and the choir. The recording by the Choir of Royal Holloway, University of London, with soprano Laura Wright, recreates the inner drama and sensibility of the piece. Each voice finds its place in the powerful choir of humanity striving for mutual understanding and support.
The specially arranged version of the piece reflects the generosity of Thomas Hewitt Jones, who invites everyone to enjoy this emotional song. After all, music is a universal language that unites. I highly recommend watching the video for this piece. The visual imagery and emotions conveyed through the frames naturally complement the musical narrative, which is truly moving. Despite its temporal connection to the pandemic, “Can You Hear Me?” has long-term relevance. It goes beyond a specific historical situation and addresses timeless questions of human connection, the need for compassion, and faith in the future.
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