Missy Mazzoli's Song From The Uproar: The Lives and Deaths of Isabelle Eberhardt is a multimedia ensemble experience that is inspired by the extraordinary life of Isabelle Eberhardt, a Swiss explorer and writer who defied societal norms by immigrating to Algeria, dressing as a man, and eventually joining the Algerian army. Her life, marked by constant reinvention and ultimately culminating in her untimely death in a flash flood in the desert, is a testament to the transformative power of personal resilience and the pursuit of freedom.

Mazzoli, hailed as one of the most innovative composers of her generation, created Song From The Uproar as a tribute to Eberhardt’s fearless spirit. The opera, which combines vocal music, instrumental ensemble, and film, is a vivid exploration of identity, transformation, and the search for meaning in a chaotic world. Mazzoli's music is characterized by its hypnotic rhythms, lush harmonies, and a unique blend of classical and contemporary elements, all of which serve to convey the emotional intensity of Eberhardt’s story.

As part of the TRANSCEND season, Song From The Uproar represents the crucial stage of transformation that leads to personal and collective transcendence. It invites the audience to witness the powerful process of becoming, as Eberhardt’s life story resonates with the broader theme of overcoming obstacles and redefining oneself. This concert is not only a reflection on the past but also a call to action—to transform our perspectives, our communities, and our world as we move toward a more enlightened and unified future.

In the context of TRANSFORMATION, Song From The Uproar delves into the profound changes that define a person’s life journey. The opera's narrative structure reflects the fragmented and turbulent nature of Eberhardt’s experiences, with Mazzoli’s score evoking the unpredictability and fluidity of transformation. This work challenges audiences to consider how moments of upheaval and reinvention shape who we are, urging us to embrace change as a fundamental part of the human experience.