Program Note

We all tell lies. We convince ourselves that deception is kinder than the truth – nothing but a harmless white lie to protect the dignity and happiness of those we care about. Being honest with ourselves, how often is our intention purely kind? Are we scared of hurting our loved ones, or are we scared of our loved ones knowing we hurt them? Is there a tinge in that perfect white?

“Off-White Lies” begins with the ‘lie’ motive, repeated ad nauseam throughout the ensemble. Recited so consistently, it begins to feel like the truth, and the music lives in a honeymoon phase for a moment. But as the rose-colored glasses begin to slip, the lie returns ever more insistent to conceal the sour reality. Desperate to return to a utopia that never was, it churns and balloons until something breaks. Sulking, the lie slowly rebuilds to reconstruct the facade. A strained happiness emerges, like a gentle smile through gritted teeth. Emboldened, the lie hammers out to the end, engulfing any notion of sincerity.

- Edmund Bascon

Off-White Lies was premiered at University of the Pacific on May 1st, 2026. 

Performers:

Lizzie Mendoza and Izzy Knittle, violins

Erick Sariles, viola

Benedict Ventura, cello