by Gary Powell
This painting depicting Galileo’s trial in front of the Catholic church tribunal hung in my brother’s, Joe Powell, house for years. While researching the seminal events where individuals stood up against the institution, this great painting came to mind. When I found the image, I asked my brother, “Is this the painting you had in your house?” He answered, “Yes it is, how about those BOYS IN RED?” The song title was born in that instant and I knew I had another historical piece to interpret musically where power tries to subdue truth.
Perhaps people who focus on their own ethical standards don’t have time to tell the rest of us what’s right.
– Joe M. Powell, Director
The Rice University Building Institute

Galileo Goes on Trial 1633
“The Boys in Red” from Aristotle’s Prayer“