When I was commissioned to compose a piece in honor of Ray McLellan, I asked Ray what theme he'd like. He said that he longed for peace and hope amidst our divisive world. Soon thereafter, the title "Rays of Hope" came to me–a play on Ray's name, and a metaphor of hope radiating from person to person like sun rays. I composed the work as a Baroque

When I was commissioned to compose a piece in honor of Ray McLellan, I asked Ray what theme he'd like. He said that he longed for peace and hope amidst our divisive world. Soon thereafter, the title "Rays of Hope" came to me–a play on Ray's name, and a metaphor of hope radiating from person to person like sun rays. I composed the work as a Baroque overture and fugue, with an imitative Latin rhythmic section in the middle. On April 20, 2021, I emailed the score of "Rays of Hope" to Ray. He responded, "What a wonderful gift to have your new piece arrive in my inbox on one of the most hopeful days for our country (the world)! There is more hope for us all after the verdict from the George Floyd trial." On April 29, Ray emailed to tell me that his health was declining rapidly. He wrote, "I will keep focusing on the title 'Rays of Hope' and let that lead me into my future. God bless you, Ray." Ray died the next day. -Pamela Ruiter-Feenstra