Abstract
"Confederates" is a novel experience designed to bring focus to the concert hall experience, the connection of audience members, and the state of music creativity/criticism today. Taking inspiration from existing musical pieces such as Janet Cardiff’s "Her Long Black Hair," Trond Reinholdsten’s "Faust, or the Decline of Western Music," and David Fincher’s film "Mulholland Drive," I sought to craft a piece that not only departs from typical concerts, but also sheds light on the process of composition itself. To achieve this feat, I used dramatic techniques such as lighting, audio displacement, misdirection, and narration. I am certainly not the first to explore the interaction and combination of music and drama. However, I contend that "Confederates" is an innovative and impactful experience, connecting strangers to strangers, and hearts to minds.