My Compositional Philosophy leans heavily toward accessibility and performability without compromising musical substance or craftsmanship. While I have composed atonal pieces and otherwise dissonant works, my focus at present is to produce well-crafted music that communicates to a wide audience on both emotional and intellectual levels; also it should be gratifying for the performer. My philosophy is informed by a former life writing broadcast jingles, immersion into the fundamental tools of music theory, and a continuing work as a sideman in various jazz and rock performances. Networking among talented students and professionals enhances my drive to compose.
When teaching composition, my goal is to assist the student by developing their craftsmanship to gain success in small solo and chamber settings with the musical resources that are available to that student’s circumstances. Significant skills can be attained by limiting oneself but with an eye toward quality.
String Compositions
Three of my recent string compositions were informally recorded by the Scandia String Quartet in early March 2015, and can be heard on the YouTube links.
The first piece, "Fugue," consists of traditional fugue construction with a baroque-inspired original subject.
The second piece, "Elegy," is of a more serious and emotional nature. The style in this leans more toward Ravel or Barber.
The third piece, "Blustery Skies Over Michigan (a Great Lakes Sea Chanty)" is scored for string quartet plus double-bass. (A former student, Tim Martuch, has also scored this movement for Brass Quintet).
Each of these pieces will soon undergo edits for publication.
My most recent addition here is the “Doubly Fortitudinous” canon performed here by Adrian College student Kali Snead multitracked 7 times!