Michigan State Symphony Band - Oct. 24, 2017

I truly enjoyed every moment of working with Dr. David Thornton and the fantastic MSU Symphony Band throughout October, in preparation for the concert this past Tuesday. The attention to detail and effort to realize my music as I had intended was always present, and I don't know if there is anything more fun than playing with sound in a space like the Wharton Center. Most of all, I was so pleased that many of the musicians took the time to express to me how much they enjoyed the work, or that it meant something special to them. I feel like ASYLUM, while programmatically referring to the Traverse City State Hospital, can also point to the broader scope of mental illnesses, many of which touch our lives everyday. It can be a deeply personal piece for the listener and performer alike, reminding us that while the realities we deal with are sometimes difficult and challenging, there will always be help if we seek it out. 

I also enjoyed talking music with Dr. Kevin Sedatole and Prof. Gary Green, as well as Branden Steinmetz and many very talented graduate conducting students. Michigan State never ceases to provide opportunities to work with world-class musicians. Go Green!

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