commissions

Commissioning a piece can be just the thing to help move your ensemble or solo performance to the next level of involvement and achievement. Being part of the process from the ground up in creating a work of art can create a connection to a piece that leads to the kind of committment in rehearsal and performance that cannot be duplicated any other way.

The first stage is simply exploring the possibilities. Who would perform the piece? What are their technical capabilities? I like to write pieces that allow performers to feel they have gotten to really use and extend their skills, but they are technically capable of a completely successful performance. For choral and solo vocal works, what words shall we use?

We then get down to the nitty gritty of timing, my availability, and cost. When an agreement is reached and the piece completed, it is my preference to spend time with the performers working on the piece and attend the premiere whenever possible. Meet The Composer can often be part of making that possible.

I am a member of the American Composer's Forum, who can help with this process. Check out their information on commissioning.

I have been commissioned for many different types of vocal and instumental projects, by individuals, high schools, universities, and churches. I would be happy to supply references.

Whether your project is just a vague idea or is more developed, please feel free to contact me and we can start a conversation. That exploration of a project is always free, and does not imply committment.

Examples of commissioned pieces

Sacrifice, SATB and percussion, commissioned for the 2010 Byron Gjerde Choral Festival by a consortium of 8 high schools

62 Insults (from Shakespeare), SA/SA with piano, commissioned by The Columbia Basin Music Educator's Association, the Enterprise Treble Choir, JoLyn Glenn, director, and the McLoughlin Treble Choir, Kurtis McFadden, director

The Tyger, SATB divisi, commissioned by Seth McMullen and the Sonous vocal ensemble of Eagle High School, Eagle, Idaho

The Wild Mountain Thyme, SATB divisi, commissioned by Dr. Randel Wagner and the Eastern Washington University Symphonic Choir

Precious Memories, SATB divisi, commissioned by Jennifer Wortman and the Palo Verde High School Concert and Alumni Chorus