Mariah Rae

Soprano

Why did you join Tonality?

I initially heard of Tonality from many mutual friends who sang in the group and said nothing but incredible things. After finishing my graduate degree during the pandemic, I was seeking meaningful musical experiences, and Tonality became the perfect place to cultivate music and community, and be a safe and productive space during challenging times.

Why do you feel a group like this is important?

Tonality is important because of how the group sheds light on social justice issues, brings together community, and inspires a call to action. It also provides a high-level, authentic and musical space where change and growth are highly valued and prioritized.

What is a particular moment you remember from singing in a Tonality concert?

Some of the first pieces I sang with the group were "America Will Be" by Joel Thompson and "In This House" by Cristian Larios, and I remember being so profoundly moved by the music and the energy of the choir each time we sang them. I also remember how we collectively all fought tears during entire pieces after colleagues vulnerably shared their stories with the community in those concerts. Since then, there have been so many other deeply memorable moments, like when we performed "At War With Ourselves," or sang about climate change on the Björk West Coast tours.