Category: Vocal Music / Art Song
Instrumentation: voice, piano
Duration: approximately 2.5–3 minutes
Text / Source: Poem by Linda Pastan
Publisher: North Star Music, LLC

Self Portrait at 44 is an intermediate-level art song for voice and piano setting a poem by Linda Pastan. The song reflects on middle age and the acceptance of human limitations and inadequacies, giving musical shape to a poised and honest act of self-recognition.

The setting is through-composed, with a recurring romantic piano melody that provides emotional continuity across the poem’s unfolding thought. Baxter’s lyrical approach supports the text’s introspective tone, balancing warmth, clarity, and a gentle awareness of vulnerability.

Self Portrait at 44 is well suited for vocal recitals and contemporary art song programs, especially those exploring aging, self-portraiture, personal honesty, and the poetry of Linda Pastan. It offers singers an opportunity for sustained reflection, clear diction, and understated emotional nuance.