I composed Sing the Saddest Song in 2005 for singer and chamber ensemble on a commission from the Albany Symphony (NY). The piece was one of three torch songs from a larger work titled Exile Tunes. After the premiere, I recognised the potential for this subsequent instrumental version that would be premiered in 2012. The original song’s lyrics reflect the challenges of forming meaningful connections with others. The singer longs to sing a sad, beautiful tune about love but also questions how her song will be received.