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Composed around the same time as the January 6, 2021 Capitol attack, all notions of fear, pain, humiliation, and frustration, brought by political divide and racial prejudice, is portrayed within this heartfelt symphonic poem. Motifs of American hymns can be heard around the piece. And with a featured arrangement of "Amazing Grace" near the end, the composer reminds us here that we must also never forget the hope that one day we can lift our heads high again from the ashes of such dividing events.

At the very beginning of writing, I knew what it was going to sound like. There would be expressions of darkness, confusion, anxiety, and terror. The main theme was mainly inspired by Aaron Copland’s Lincoln Portrait. I also used pieces of melodies from patriotic music such as the National Anthem, and America the Beautiful to symbolize our divided nation. The repeating motifs from the main theme continue throughout most of the piece, always reminding us of the terrorizing “justice” that was that day and the people’s actions on that day.

Ending it off on a dark note was also never my intention. I could have finished Portraits with a tragic and depressing coda that could clearly show my fear and anger. But “fighting” anger with anger also doesn’t solve anything. I knew I wanted to use this opportunity to not just express my deep emotions, but also encourage hope and unity. My last thoughts were to help bring back a sense of community. The first thing that I thought could do this was Amazing Grace. Every American knows it, and it touches our hearts every time, more than most other songs. The featured off-stage trumpet ensemble is my representation of the light that will shine over our beloved nation.

The purpose of this work is to mark the U.S. Capitol Attack on January 6, 2021, into American history.

May we never forget this time.