The Fat Lady Sings: Lindley sings Quanta Qualia by Patrick Hawes

Lindley Ashline and Ann Duweke singing Patrick Hawes’ “Quanta Qualia” at the Hope for Japan Concert, November 19, 2011.

I fell in love with Hayley Westenra’s rendition of this piece, and from there discovered all of Hawes’ mesmerizing music. It was such a joy to be able to perform Quantia Qualia.

This isn’t a recent video, but I’m re-sharing it as a way of releasing old body shame. When this video was taken, I was bothered by the way my fat body moved on stage, and even more distressed by listening to my own voice. I wasn’t able to give myself the grace and vulnerability of acknowledging that I was learning and growing, but now I’m ready to extend that love to myself. I belonged on that stage, I still do, and I always will.