Laeh Su Tel! (convo)

In this episode, Gwenith Kikkawa sits down with composer, pianist, and music therapist Dorian Wallace to reflect on his recent album release concert for Laeh Su Tel!—a two-part improvised piano project exploring the intersections of personal healing, collective memory, and political resistance. Together, they discuss the energy and emotional impact of the live performance, the creative process behind the albums Psychology in a New Key and A Healing Sound for the People!, and how music functions as a tool for both personal transformation and social change.Dorian shares stories from the night of the concert, the intention behind each set, and how the music was shaped in real-time in response to the audience, the space, and the historical weight of the songs being interpreted. Gwenith and Dorian also explore themes of liberation psychology, trauma-informed practice, and the role of improvisation in navigating the complexities of grief, resistance, and joy. Whether you were at the concert or are just now discovering this project, this conversation offers a deep dive into the philosophy and practice of making music for collective healing. Stream the albums:Laeh Su Tel! Psychology in a New KeyLaeh Su Tel! A Healing Sound for the People!Recorded after the live concert at Soapbox Gallery, Brooklyn.https://www.soapboxgallery.org/live-streamDorian’s Mode is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit doriansmode.substack.com/subscribe