We Wear the Mask
Words: Paul Laurence Dunbar | Music: Adapted for Tenor/Lyric Baritone & Piano
Solo Voice & Piano | Art Song | Approx. 3–4 minutes | Grade 5–6
About:
We Wear the Mask is a poignant art song adaptation of Paul Laurence Dunbar’s powerful poem, arranged for tenor or lyric baritone with piano accompaniment. This intimate performance delivers deep emotional impact through its nuanced text setting, expressive vocal line, and supportive piano harmonies.
About the Poem:
Dunbar's poem begins by stating that people often wear a “mask” that smiles outwardly while concealing pain, frustration, and sorrow underneath. The mask is a symbol of survival, a façade of happiness and composure maintained to cope with a society that does not allow vulnerability or truth—especially for marginalized people.
We Wear the Mask
Words: Paul Laurence Dunbar | Music: Adapted for Tenor/Lyric Baritone & Piano
Solo Voice & Piano | Art Song | Approx. 3–4 minutes | Grade 5–6
About:
We Wear the Mask is a poignant art song adaptation of Paul Laurence Dunbar’s powerful poem, arranged for tenor or lyric baritone with piano accompaniment. This intimate performance delivers deep emotional impact through its nuanced text setting, expressive vocal line, and supportive piano harmonies.
About the Poem:
Dunbar's poem begins by stating that people often wear a “mask” that smiles outwardly while concealing pain, frustration, and sorrow underneath. The mask is a symbol of survival, a façade of happiness and composure maintained to cope with a society that does not allow vulnerability or truth—especially for marginalized people.
