Shakespeare’s Sonnets

All music written by Elisa

I was inspired to start this project in the spring of 2020 after watching a few of Sir Patrick Stewart’s #asonnetaday videos on Instagram. Struggling to be creative with all the anxiety and emotion surrounding Coronavirus, Shakespeare’s beautiful language captured my focus and was a welcome relief.

I’ve written music to 40 of the sonnets so far (some have yet to be posted) and intend to write all 154, however long it may take. My relationship to the project continues to change and grow: I’ve explored genres from bluegrass to punk, early music to techno. Sometimes I experiment with fun video techniques, mostly I keep it simple. Often the sonnets are a wonderful chance to collaborate with other musicians and great friends. I’ve now performed many of the sonnets at live shows, and seeing how Shakespeare can resonate with audiences through song has been a complete joy. Sonnet 1 will have its European debut in the fall of 2026, performed by soprano Cornelia Samuelis and violinist Martin Dehning.

If you’d like to bring the sonnets to your venue or event, or perform some of them yourself, please don’t hesitate to contact me.

 

You can enjoy the complete collection below or directly on YouTube.

Sonnet 29

This sonnet will forever hold a special place in my heart: released on December 31, 2020, the sonnet features an online chorus of my family, friends, and students. I cannot thank my incredible community enough for being part of this video and part of my life. With you anything feels possible.

by Shakespearemusic by Elisa WinterI cannot thank my incredible friends, family, and students enough for being part of this video and part of my life. With y...