ASYLUM @ INTERLOCHEN

A few weekends ago I had the incredible experience of visiting the Interlochen Arts Camp to work with Kevin Sedatole and the World Youth Wind Symphony on "ASYLUM." This opportunity was uniquely special for me, having spent two summers as an Interlochen camper in high school. It was there that I made the decision to follow a career path in music, and being back there decades later as a guest composer was incredibly rewarding. 

The calibre of these young musicians is just unreal, and their nuanced performance reflected it. They responded to Kevin's expressive interpretation immediately and with a depth that I was not expecting. While I was impressed by their technical and ensemble clarity, I was even more affected by how musical and emotive their playing was. It reminded me of why I wanted to be there as a teenager, and how I felt like I had found my tribe. Natalie got some great shots from the rehearsal (below the video) too.

It was great to spend some time with Kevin making music, and sharing my inspiration for the piece with the kids. It was also fantastic to briefly visit with Mike Kaufman, Matthew Schlomer and Jennifer Jolley at rehearsal. My friend James Gross came up from Blue Lake for the gig, as well as the MSU graduate conducting "Rat Pack" Branden Steinmetz, Travis Higa, Tyler Austin and Hunter Kopcyznski. Great to see Steve Davis as well, he puts together an unbelievable experience for the WYWS every summer. The spirit and intention of the place is alive and well; It continues to draw people near who deeply love and value music and art. I was absolutely honored to be part of it all once again. A HUGE thank you to Kevin for the invitation and moving performance!