5 songs in the Age of Stupidity for Mezzo Soprano and 2 Percussion

5 Songs in the Age of Stupidity by John Max McFarland is a contemporary song cycle for mezzo-soprano and two percussionists, featuring five selections from The 365 Stupidest Things Ever Said Page-A-Day Calendar. Each movement sets an entire quote to music, ranging from brief, absurd statements to longer passages, transforming real-life moments of foolishness into a theatrical musical experience.

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The work combines contemporary musical techniques with programmatic elements, incorporating an unusual assortment of percussion instruments, noisemakers, and toys to bring each quote to life. The mezzo-soprano even joins in playing some of these unconventional instruments, adding another layer of humor and theatricality to the performance.

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Blending musical complexity with comedic expression, 5 Songs in the Age of Stupidity challenges performers to move beyond traditional concert presentation. This moderately difficult work offers an entertaining and unconventional experience that celebrates the absurdity of human expression through music, humor, and theatrical performance.

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Instrumentation: Mezzo Soprano and 2 Percussion