American Standard
This essay was published as an extension of Serpentine Magazine's music issue in July 2015.
Abstract:
"American Standard" is a critical examination of ableist cultural values using music by minimalist composer John Adams and recent events in Philadelphia as touchstones. The critique focus on how able-bodied exceptionalism is encoded with a history of religious bias. The piece engages active listening to two versions of Adams' Christian Zeal and Activity, and readers are encouraged to listen along while reading. Links to the audio are provided below.
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