Uploaded May 2026 | Updated September 2026, 3 weeks ago
Toleration explores the long-term impact of systemic sexual harassment within the military. The composition reflects a shared experience, akin to the post-COVID lockdown era where outward appearances of normalcy mask underlying distress. Structured as a military march, the piece begins with a main theme in a major key, which gradually shifts to a more minor, dissonant, and chaotic character. This progression mirrors the inner turmoil that accompanies “tolerating” ongoing harassment.
In its conclusion, the piece conveys the perseverance of the human spirit. The main theme persists until the end, symbolizing the resilience of those who continue despite their altered sense of self. Toleration captures the essence of navigating a reality that is simultaneously “fine” and “not fine,” forever transformed by the experiences of enduring trauma.
Commissioned by the Naden Band of the Royal Canadian Navy in response to the CAF-DND Sexual Misconduct Class Action, this work is dedicated to all survivors of sexual trauma in the military. It premiered on February 10, 2023, performed by the Naden Band of the RCN and the University of Victoria Wind Symphony, under the direction of Captain Catherine Norris, the Commanding Officer of the Central Band.
Toleration explores the long-term impact of systemic sexual harassment within the military. The composition reflects a shared experience, akin to the post-COVID lockdown era where outward appearances of normalcy mask underlying distress. Structured as a military march, the piece begins with a main theme in a major key, which gradually shifts to a more minor, dissonant, and chaotic character. This progression mirrors the inner turmoil that accompanies “tolerating” ongoing harassment.
In its conclusion, the piece conveys the perseverance of the human spirit. The main theme persists until the end, symbolizing the resilience of those who continue despite their altered sense of self. Toleration captures the essence of navigating a reality that is simultaneously “fine” and “not fine,” forever transformed by the experiences of enduring trauma.
Commissioned by the Naden Band of the Royal Canadian Navy in response to the CAF-DND Sexual Misconduct Class Action, this work is dedicated to all survivors of sexual trauma in the military. It premiered on February 10, 2023, performed by the Naden Band of the RCN and the University of Victoria Wind Symphony, under the direction of Captain Catherine Norris, the Commanding Officer of the Central Band.
