Scarlett
duration: 6:30
instrumentation: Mezzo soprano, Tenor Saxophone, 2 Violins, Cello
premiere: October 3, 2019 // KGB Espionage Museum, NYC
premiere performer: Hai-Ting Chin, mezzo; Erin Rogers, tenor sax; Lynn Bechtold + Mioi Takeda, violins; Jennifer Devore, cello
publisher: A-Town Publications (ASCAP) © 2019
Scarlett was commissioned by Ladies First.
Program Note:
Before the likes of Maria Butina, Anna Chapman was arrested in a spy ring U.S. in 2010 and extradited to Russia in a highly publicized swap of secret agents, pleading guilty to the charge of conspiracy to act as an agent of a foreign government. During her time in the US, Chapman quickly ascended social ladders posing as an entrepreneur with prior experience in finance. Her quick wit, charm, striking red hair, and model figure allowed her to maneuver within New York’s elite and to gain secrets and financial gifts. Following her arrest and revoke of British citizenship (which she gained through marriage, allowing her access to the US), Chapman endured a brief stint in solitary confinement, returning to Russia as a celebrated agent and celebrity. She was tapped by Vladimir Putin to head the Molodaya Gvardiya, a Nationalist youth group, and became a catwalk model in Russian fashion shows. An instagram star and want-to-be actress, Chapman is currently a regular TV persona in Russia. She has pushed for a woman’s right to wear makeup in the military and often shows off her shooting skills. On a talk show appearance, Chapman expressed her longstanding desire for a pet lion, whereby a lion on leash was brought on set for her. —Erin Rogers (2019)
Please inquire with the composer if you are interested in performing or studying the score for Scarlett.