Memoirs of a Gaysian

Memoirs of a Gaysian speaks to the unique stories and perspectives of Queer-Asian experiences. Highlighting Queer and Asian composers and librettists, this recital program incorporates songs and arias from the traditional classical music canon, as well as works from living composers. Being Queer and being Asian are often compartmentalized–the limited accessibility of same-sex marriages among Asian countries and the prevalent traditional family values among Asian cultures have hidden the voices of LGBTQ+ people within the community. This recital provides a platform for Queer-Asian artists to unite these two worlds, universalize their individual stories, and together with the audience, create awareness and understanding of Queer-Asian experiences. 

The inspiration for this program sparked with realization of AAPI Heritage Month and Pride month being back-to-back. The beautiful union of Queer and Asian-ness in Ocean Vuong’s poetry and composer Dylan Trấn’s setting of in his song cycle Ba provided additional inspiration for the unity of Queer and Asian voices in one recital. The program is further developed with pieces by Brian C. Armbrust, Huang Ruo, Alice Ping Yee Ho, and more, with a goal of discussing and reflecting on the intersection of being Queer and being Asian.