If your programs and teaching are not censored by your institution, please use these program notes:
As we grow up, whether we’re thirteen or thirty or fifty or ninety, the things and ideas we value change. Sometimes, it’s not necessarily that they change—it’s that we come to a better understanding of ourselves or something important in our lives. We, in many regards, are exactly the same, but how we approach and navigate the world? That might be drastically different.

Getting to understand yourself better can even be scary sometimes, especially when you worry the world will treat you differently. In these pivotal moments, be they large or small, many of us hope for the unwavering support of our friends and loved ones. Sometimes that support is immediate and strong, but other times, that’s not the case. And in any such scenario, figuring out how to navigate those relationships can be hard. It can feel easier in the moment to diminish ourselves and retreat back in order to preserve those bonds. Sometimes, with people like parents or teachers, that’s a necessary decision—but doing it with everyone, forever? That wears on the soul.

When I came out, I learned within a year that many friends and colleagues I’d known for half a decade weren’t so interested in supporting or welcoming me now that I didn’t fit the version of me they’d built up in their heads. It was jarring to experience that shift during what was supposed to be a joyful time of publicly embracing who I’ve come to realize I am, and I would be lying if I told you it was an easy part of my transition. However, that backdrop illuminated a few close friends who were sticking with me no matter what—and as I started to meet new people as myself, the acceptance and overt support I received in those spaces really showed me how much I was valued. Some of these things took a long time to manifest (and there are a few relationships I’m still unsure of years later), but I could not have fully identified these people who would stick with me as I transitioned until I transitioned. And since I took that step, I can confidently say that I know who’s looking out for my wellbeing, not just their ideas of who I should be.

But here’s the thing: this reorienting of relationships happens to all of us at some point or another. It may not be on such a vast scale, but if you’ve ever had a friend decide they’re just not into you anymore, you’ve probably felt something similar. Each of these moments can be acutely painful, no matter their cause! neverending rain is my attempt to speak to these complexities. It’s a follow-up to a piece I wrote for two people who were pivotally important parts of my life in undergrad. While we mostly wave at each other on social media now (and live in three different states), I’ll never deny that they were two people who have brought exponentially more fun into my life and genuinely changed the ways I think about new adventures. Even though they are no longer active parts of my life, I’m a better person for having known them. Depending on who you are and where you’re at in your own relationships, neverending rain may be reflective, hopeful, or even a little bit sad—and that’s okay. In times of change, sometimes when we look out at the world we see an endless sea of gray. But I promise you: learning to dance in the rain, or even just knowing that’s a great day to curl up and reread a book or watch a beloved show, will make far better memories than just sitting in the downpour.

Run time: approx. 4’10”.

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Frequently asked: How should I write the name of this piece in programs/posts/etc.?
Answer: In all lowercase (“neverending rain”). This song is intentionally not written with Capital Letter Energy; please honor that by writing it as I’ve written it for your programs and other media.
Is it okay if I add percussion?
Answer: Absolutely! As long as they’re playing the parts in front of them, it’s fine with me. I recommend selecting instruments that will blend well timbrally with what you already have.
How is this piece related to (Calm) Before the Storm?
Answer: If (Calm) is looking at a big life/relationship change before it happens, neverending rain is the view from its midst. This piece is about making the most of the time you have with someone, and rain is about processing and navigating the changes that can disrupt even the most significant parts of our lives. The two pieces can be programmed together or separately, by one group or multiple.