INSIDE
SATB choir and piano | 7 minutes | Medium difficulty
Text by Amy Scurria
Commissioned for the Contemporary American Vocal Music Initiative by Dr. Jerron Jorgensen and the Choirs of Southern Oregon University
Inside is a profound choral exploration of the autistic experience, set to original text by the composer. Written following her own autism diagnosis at age 48, Scurria invites listeners into a vibrant internal world often unseen by neurotypical society. The work moves through moments of safety, sensory intensity, struggle, and ultimately a plea for deeper listening and connection. With evocative piano accompaniment supporting rich choral textures, Inside has resonated deeply with performers and audiences alike, sparking meaningful conversations about neurodiversity and fostering greater understanding. This piece speaks powerfully to themes of identity, empathy, and the universal longing to be truly heard.
Perfect for: Diversity and inclusion programming, mental health awareness concerts, educational contexts exploring neurodiversity, any choir seeking meaningful contemporary repertoire with social impact.
Text by Amy Scurria
inside
the world is safe
inside is a universe
my skin
is electric
feeling air
like dancing fairies
i dance
to the music in my mind
to the music in my ears
to the music everywhere
i breathe
to know that i'm alive
in this body that doesn't begin
to tell the whole story
i speak
but words fail me
i sing
my mind like the trees
a network
connecting
connecting
connecting
calling out
please listen
i see
i hear
i sense
the universe connected
yet tearing one another apart
i weep
i cannot convey all that i experience
all that i see and all that i know
i want to ask you to listen
gently listen
with more than your ears
my tears plead
please pay attention to one another i
nside is a universe
inside is more than i can show you