A Prairie Portrait was inspired by the poetry of Carl Sandburg. The lyrical quality of the music is a testament to the loving words he wrote as a tribute to his birthplace. The pioneer spirit shines through the opening of the work, full of youthful optimism and energy. The lyrical section that follows represents the poet's "hankering" for another day and beautiful night on the prairie, giving us the warm feelings of love and security we all feel about the place we call home.
