Pigeons have a long history with us, from their domestication to many roles in human civilizations as food, pets, messengers, and even as a symbol of peace. Their adaptability has led to their proliferation in numbers, becoming one of the most common birds we see today, especially in urban dwellings. Their co-existence with humans in densely-populated cities has created conflict in recent years, giving them notoriety as pests and disease-spreaders, even called “rats with wings” by some.

 

This piece of music is a reflection of the complex history we have with pigeons, also known as “rock doves” in their original habitat. It features motifs imitating their cooing calls, which come together to form song-like melodies that involve moments of peace, vigor, jest, and anguish. It is a tribute to these marvelous birds, which deserve way more recognition than what they have today, given their indispensable role throughout the course of our history.