Melissa Dunphy

Commissioned by Central Bucks High School West Men's Choir.

The lyrics for this moving song were taken from an interview with Justice Ruth Bader Ginsberg, in which she discusses her legacy and dedication to public service. Featuring a solo soprano voice.


When the Time Comes
By Ruth Bader Ginsberg (2015)

And when the time comes,
what would you like to be remembered for?
Someone who used whatever talent she had
to do her work to the very best of her ability.
And to help repair tears in her society,
to make things a little better
through the use of whatever ability she has.
To do something outside myself.
'Cause I've gotten much more satisfaction
for the things that I've done for which I was not paid.
“But when it's over, don't look back.
Don't worry about things that are over and done.
Instead, go onto the next case and give it your all.”

Used with permission from Jane C. Ginsburg and James S. Ginsburg

Artwork by Abigail Markov.

Performances

• 28 Mar, 2025 - 29 Mar, 2025: University of West Florida Singers at University of West Florida Center for Fine and Performing Arts, Pensacola, FL
• 21 Jul, 2023: Washington ACDA Summer Institute at University of Puget Sound, Tacoma, WA
• 20 Jul, 2023: Washington ACDA Summer Institute at University of Puget Sound, Tacoma, WA
• 15 Oct, 2021: Carl Alexander, countertenor & Constellation Men's Ensemble at Mrs. Murphy & Sons Irish Pub, Chicago, IL
• 14 Oct, 2021: Carl Alexander, countertenor & Constellation Men's Ensemble at Mrs. Murphy & Sons Irish Pub, Chicago, IL