"New Words"

You won't find "New Words" easily as it was written by Maury Yeston for his Broadway piece In The Beginning in 1987. After looking through the database I was unable to find an opening date for this work, so I am lead to believe it did not make it to the great white way. Never mind, it is still a great piece. An amazing actor, Omri, found this piece among others and a wonderful soprano, Cindy, sang it when I first heard this piece in upstate New York.

But, enough about how I found it, here is why I like it. It tells the story of a parent sitting with their child as the child begins to put together sounds to create words. It outlines how the world is just beginning for this child, how so much is left for them to learn, and how beautiful the world potentially is. The parent carefully guides the child through these new experiences. The melody line soars and the piano part is beautiful all on its own. It almost doesn't need the vocal line!

It is hard to find performances of this song, so here is one of the better ones I've heard, though I admit to only listening and not watching.