Aruban American mezzo-soprano, Dr. Erin Leigh Koolman presents a recital expressing her love for art song and the written word. Starting with excerpts from Twelve Poems of Emily Dickinson, we explore how legendary North American composer Aaron Copland takes the melancholy, introspective words of poet Emily Dickinson and creates a song cycle that challenges the interpretive skills of the performer and audience alike. Continuing the theme of poetic analysis, we hear Samuel Barber’s Three Songs, Op. 45. All three, feature texts translated into the English language offering a thought-provoking exploration in finding meaning and connection with words that may not originate from our native language. Dr. Koolman shifts her recital to present a selection of songs from Colombian composer Antonio María Valencia. If we are willing to expand our musical boarders beyond the Western European canon, we will find that soaring melodies and contemplative poetry are human experiences found on all corners of the globe. While Meg March’s aria “Things change, Jo” from Mark Adamo’s Little Women doesn’t align with the art song theme of the previous selections, the conversation that Meg has with younger sister Jo, is just as reflective and heart-felt. As the eldest daughter and grandchild, Dr. Koolman has had the pleasure of watching her generation grow and follow their own paths to happiness and fulfillment. This aria explores the unconditional love of family and is the perfect ending for a recital built around the importance of language and introspection.