DMA candidate in composition Mikeila McQueston presents the world premiere of her piece *ever unleaving*. A song cycle for mezzo-soprano and tenor, *ever unleaving* uses nature-based imagery to explore the complex and overwhelming task of coping with grief in early adulthood. The libretto features five newly commissioned poems from interdisciplinary artist Tamar Ashdot and takes inspiration from Michigan’s geographical landscape. The musical aspect of the work is heavily influenced by the composer's own experiences around South Manitou Island, Sleeping Bear Dunes, and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Featuring: Ashley Dixon, mezzo-soprano Carlos Santelli, tenor Taylor Flowers, piano