Beloved Community (PDF)

Beloved Community was commissioned by National Flute Association for the 2025 National Flute Association Convention in Atlanta, GA. Premiered at the 2025 National Flute Association Convention’s Opening Gala. Performed by soloist Valerie Coleman and Atlanta area flute choirs conducted by Kelly Via.

Beloved Community was inspired by the theme of the 2025 National Flute Association convention, Unity and Universal Oneness. In researching the life and teachings of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., I was drawn to his vision of “The Beloved Community”—a powerful concept in which people, despite their differences and the conflicts that may arise, come together through love, understanding, and redemption. MLK, Jr. described this transformative force as “agape,” a selfless, unconditional love that seeks to resolve division with goodwill and understanding for all.

The composition reflects this vision of unity amidst diversity. The flute choir is spread throughout the performance space, with each group of flutes presenting contrasting ideas and musical conflicts. The solo flute then enters as a single voice, soaring above the dissonance and tension, representing a force of reconciliation. As the piece unfolds, the soloist challenges and shifts the other groups, gradually persuading them to listen, to understand, and to harmonize with one another. Through this musical journey, Beloved Community embodies the hope that even the most complex conflicts can be resolved through mutual respect and love, leading to a unified, harmonious whole.