Beacons of Pride pays homage to the celebration of Pride Month, commonly occurring in June. Pride Month refers to the wide range of Pride events celebrated by 2SLGBTQIA+ communities and allies, who come together to spotlight resilience, celebrate talent, and recognize the contributions of 2SLGBTQIA+ communities. Historically, the roots of Pride celebrations can be traced back to the Stonewall Uprising in June of 1969, a series of events between police and 2SLGBTQIA+ protesters in Greenwich, New York City. During the early morning hours on June 28, 1969, plainclothes officers from the New York Police Department arrived at the Stonewall Inn, a popular bar among the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. Homosexuality was still considered an offence Under the New York City penal code, and officers began to raid the establishment, arresting patrons and employees. Word of the Stonewall raid spread quickly throughout the city, and by that evening (Saturday, June 28), thousands of protesters had gathered in solidarity. The protests continued the following week, with another intense outbreak of fighting and brutality occurring the following Wednesday. As a result, the first Pride march was held on June 28, 1970, in New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles to commemorate the first anniversary of the Stonewall Uprising. Today, Pride Month events and parades are held globally in over 100 countries, with some of the largest celebrations occurring in São Paulo, New York City, Berlin, Taipei, and Toronto. The piece draws inspiration from powerful imagery of buildings illuminated in rainbow-coloured lights during Pride Month, an enduring symbol of support for 2SLGBTQIA+ communities.

The piece begins with a beautiful lyrical opening, where the central theme is gently passed from instrument to instrument, representing the unity and togetherness within the community. The music flows with warmth and tenderness, creating a peaceful atmosphere that mirrors the comfort of finding one's place in a supportive space. The middle section, energetic and fast-paced, reflects the brilliant, vibrant illuminations of the rainbow lights, a visual representation of strength and resilience. The rhythmic pattern in Bar 101 represents a heartbeat and pushes the music forward, leading to a powerful climax with an underlying sense of sombre reflection. This serves as a reminder that the journey toward pride and acceptance often comes with struggle. The final section returns to the lyrical themes from the beginning, offering a reflective and contemplative mood. The music softens as it revisits the peaceful, flowing figures, allowing space for reflection. As the piece comes to a resonant close, it leaves the listener with a sense of quiet resolution and the enduring power of community and self-acceptance.

As an LGBTQ+ composer, I’ve always found the band one of my safest spaces—surrounded by a loving community that embraced me for who I am. I wanted to pour those emotions into this piece to honour the resilience and joy of finding and creating your own safe spaces. By writing music celebrating 2SLGBTQIA+ voices, I hope to open doors for other young composers and musicians to see themselves and their stories reflected in the band world. It’s a step toward more visibility and understanding, and I hope it resonates with those who, like me, have found a home in music.