This 1982 American experimental non-narrative film was produced without dialogue or narration. Instead, American minimalist composer Philip Glass wrote a musical score that juxtaposes sound with images of cities and landscapes across the United States. Our students have taken this silent film and with thoughtful months of preparation, have developed their own musical score to accompany this film whose Hopi title translates as “life out of balance” In keeping with our study of the Merrimack River that runs through our town of Newburyport, this project is a reflection of how music studies can help students engage with the emotional aspect of piano performance. This project also connects our students with their community and environmental concerns, concerns that affect all of us.