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Hey, guys! I’ve taken a bit of a break from the site, but I want to share some of my music with everyone. This is a “novella” for flute, clarinet, and bassoon, so termed in reaction to the narrative quality of the piece, as well as the episodic vignettes that occur throughout the work. I finally feel more comfortable with my own, personal style and musical voice, and I am quite pleased with the result. I would love to hear your feedback on what you hear – e.g. the difficulty, the duration, the technique involved, etc. – so that I might be able to thoroughly improve the piece (especially since I am always learning)!

It is often said that Brahms was a master of the piano trio. What makes him masterful? Do you have any tips for writing a piano trio? How should I use the different instruments?

This is my piece Steps to Follow. It is based off of a percussion piece that I found a while back called "Fractalia" by Owen Clayton Condon. I really like the echo pattern that he established in that piece, so I decided to play around with it and make a piano peice based off of it. I personally enjoy the sound of it and like how it turned out, but I am always looking for feedback/criticism, so please let me know what you think. Thanks 🙂 Note: The score is kind of a mess lol. At the time of finishing/uploading this it is really late, and I just could not bring myself to clean it up or try to fight Sibelius over organizing it.

Trio in B-flat for Viola, Violoncello, and Contrabass I. Allegro spiritoso II. Adagio e sostenuto III. Menuetto: Allegro IV. Allegretto Composed: February 22 - May 26, 2014 Style: Classical, circa 1790 Though conceived as a mere amusement, this work ended up being for me an intensive study on how to handle a group of low-register instruments effectively in a chamber ensemble. Works for this very unusual instrumentation are exceedingly rare, as one may imagine, probably because of the challenges I faced in writing my own piece. Achieving clarity in an ensemble with so much bass sonority was rather difficult, but I believe I achieved it to some degree. Fortunately the players for whom I was writing it made the job easier. This trio was originally written for myself, a friend (an excellent ‘cellist), and my ex-boyfriend (a fine bassist) to play just for fun. This is one of several chamber works featuring the contrabass that I wrote with my ex-boyfriend in mind, and I learnt a lot about the capabilities of the instrument from writing them (I had never been much interested in the contrabass in chamber ensembles before I met him, but listening to him practice difficult passage work I would never have thought possible on the instrument fascinated me, besides which, affection prompts us do things we wouldn’t otherwise have the inclination to do). Both of the other players are better technicians than I am, so I was able to write parts for them that were somewhat demanding. The viola part I wrote for myself was also challenging for me, but carefully within my skillset, so all the parts are fairly equal. Description: The first movement (Allegro spiritoso), in Sonata-Allegro form, opens with a bold, vigourous 4-measure theme for all the instruments in unison, sweetened by a more lyrical melody in the ‘cello before being repeated. A transitional section follows, featuring the contrabass in sweeping scales and arpeggios, which modulates to the dominant of the dominant key, C major; the second theme, somewhat unusually, begins in C, with the ‘cello and ‘bass harmonizing in 10ths, and makes its way to the dominant key of F a few measures later. After a short codetta, the exposition is repeated, with the main theme slightly altered here and there. The development treats snippets of the main theme contrapuntally before modulating back to the tonic key for recapitulation. The second movement (Adagio e sostenuto), in binary form, is in the subdominant key of E-flat, and begins with a simple but expressive theme, which gives way to a transitional section led by the ‘cello. A more rhapsodic second theme follows with the viola and ‘cello harmonizing in 3rds and 6ths, accompanied by the ‘bass. The A and B themes are repeated, all in the tonic key, and coda based on the A theme closes the movement. The third movement (Allegro) is a Menuetto based on a 5-note motive that is repeated and developed throughout the main section of the movement. The contrasting Trio section, in the movement’s dominant key of F, is based on a sprightly theme characterized by leaps of 5ths and 6ths up and down. The main section is then repeated (Da Capo). The fourth and final movement (Allegretto), in Rondo form, begins with a somewhat droll “A” theme, which is then developed during a transitional section. Just when one expects the “B” theme to enter, a short fugato on a new subject is introduced, which leads into the actual “B” theme in the dominant key of F - humourous, and characterized by accented syncopations and sudden changes of dynamic. After a brief codetta, the “A” theme returns abbreviated, followed by a lyrical “C” theme. The “A” theme returns again, followed by yet another short but different fugato on the same subject as before, and the “B” theme returns in the tonic key. A variation of the “A” theme returns a final time, and a humourous and spirited coda ends the movement. This work was premiered in July 2014 by the ensemble for which it was written, at a cojffeehouse in Wichita, Kansas (where I was living at the time) which often features live music of all sorts, and was warmly received by the audience of patrons sipping coffee or having breakfast. Alas, the nature of the venue precluded a live recording being made - there was a fair amount of background noise as beverages and food were being served. Inasmuch as I have heard this work performed effectively, and I know it works, I have few concerns, but I am open to suggestions, comments, and criticisms as always. Players’ and Audience Comments: The players enjoyed playing the piece, and when I suggested a performance as part of the ‘cellist’s regular solo set at the coffeehouse, all were in agreement. The bassist, himself a fine composer as well as a university music theory teacher, was somewhat critical of the ‘bass accompaniment of the second theme in the slow movement because it didn’t seem like a characteristic period bass line, but that was the only criticism I received. The audience members made few comments other than to congratulate me. To my surprise, no one seemed even vaguely bemused by my choice of instrumentation, which I took as further evidence that I had made it work effectively. I did receive one criticism from a friend who frankly told me he hated the piece, saying that it was devoid of any treble sonorities and far too dark to be pleasant, but his was the only such comment. I hope you enjoy this rather unusual work! Cheers!

Divertimento a 3 in B-flat, for 2 Violins and Violoncello I. Allegro di molto II. Andante III. Allegro giusto, alla breve Composed: April 4-17, 2017 Style: Classical, circa 1790 I enjoy spending my lunch hours at work productively when I have the energy, sketching or doing exercises. A couple of weeks ago I started a counterpoint exercise that I worked on for the next couple of days, and it turned out well. The thought occurred to me that perhaps it might serve as a movement in a larger work, in which I might also use some old ideas that had been waiting around in the back of my mind for years, and the idea for this little divertimento was born. Most of this work was written by hand while lunching in my car. The term divertimento denotes a multi-movement work that is light in character, for the diversion or amusement of the audience or players (or both), as the name implies. This one is in three movements, and is modeled after similar works I have played and heard by Joseph Haydn (1732-1809). It is quite short, much like Haydn’s examples, lasting just under 10 minutes. Description: The energetic first movement (Allegro di molto), in sonata-allegro form, is dominated by a dynamic 4-measure opening motive that I have had in my mind for many years, which I found opportunities to develop throughout the movement. The contrasting second theme, smoother and calmer than the first, is stated canonically by the two violins, accompanied by a chromatic accompaniment figure in the ‘cello adding harmonic complexity. The opening theme is then restated and developed into a codetta to close the exposition, which is then repeated. The development section treats part of main theme in close canon, modulating to distant keys to develop the second theme before making its way back to the tonic B-flat for the recapitulation, and the movement ends with a short coda, again based on the opening theme. The second movement (Andante), in the subdominant key of E-flat, is in the simplest of binary forms (ABAB), and begins somewhat statically, setting a mood of calm to contrast with the verve of first movement before gradually becoming more florid and interesting starting in m. 6. The second theme is a pretty melody I have had in the back of my mind for at least 30 years, patiently waiting for the right application, and now it has a place at last. The second time it comes around, the eighth note accompaniment is changed to sixteenth notes for variety. The movement closes with a very short coda, a varied restatement of mm. 11-12. The third and final movement (Allegro giusto, alla breve), originally conceived as the aforementioned counterpoint exercise, is a light-hearted fugue in an Italianate style, on an original 6-measure subject reminiscent of Handel. There are four statements of the subject by each of the instruments, including statements in stretto and an inverted statement, interspersed with episodes developing foregoing material. The movement closes with a coda based on the rhythm and contour of the last measure of the subject, on a pedal B-flat in the 1st violin and ‘cello alternately, ending in a plagal cadence. Concerns: 1st Movement – I’m a little worried that perhaps I have overdeveloped the opening motive by repeating it too often, even if I vary it – particularly the four chords at the beginning of it. I’m open to the idea of reworking the movement slightly if I get a lot of feedback that this is a problem. I love developing themes, but I want to avoid monotony. 3rd Movement – I’ve been writing counterpoint as a serious avocation for years, having listened to a lot of it and read several books on the subject. I even authored the very popular “Fugue Crash-Course” here before I knew as much as I know now, yet I still feel insecure and mystified. I try to proceed confidently, but since I have taught myself everything I know, I constantly worry that I’m making mistakes out of ignorance. It has happened before several times. I want to make sure what I’m doing is “by the book,” so if any of you notice anything in this fugue that you know for certain is wrong or mishandled, I want to know about it. I hope you enjoy this little piece, and thank you for your kind attention.

Divertimento a 3 in F, for 2 Violins and Violoncello I. Allegretto grazioso (3/8) II. Andante (2/4) III. Allegro giusto, alla breve (cut time) Composed: 2011 Style: Classical, circa 1790 This work is the first of two such divertimenti for this instrumentation I have composed to date, the second of which having been written and posted here just recently. I consider it one of my more charming and attractive works – a personal favourite – and among my most ingenious, a tour de force of development and counterpoint (of which I am very proud) without being obvious about it. One hardly realizes that motives are continually being developed throughout both the first and second movements, in as unassuming a manner as possible. It is in three movements, and lasts 10-½ minutes. Description: The first movement (Allegretto grazioso), in Sonata-Allegro form, opens with a lilting, graceful theme of rising steps that ascend the scale in slurred pairs, followed by a series of descending scales in skittering triplets, and a few “sighing” gestures, that together I feel form one of my prettiest melodies. From it are then extracted the following three discrete motives that are developed almost constantly throughout the movement: The playful second theme contrasts with the elegance of the first before a pair of turns and a florid cadence transform it into something more refined. The development section further explores the possibilities of the various motives around a central sequence, and culminates in a rising and falling series of coupled steps (motive 1) on a pedal tone that brings the music to a very satisfying return of the opening theme in the recapitulation. The second movement (Andante), in binary form, is in the subdominant key of B-flat, and opens with a coquettish theme from which, as in the first movement, are extracted the following two discrete motives that are developed elsewhere in the movement: This theme is then repeated in the tonic minor, and through a surprising modulation makes its way to the movement’s dominant key of F. There is no second theme per se, but rather a contrapuntal development of the foregoing motives. The third and final movement (Allegro giusto, alla breve) is a rollicking, rather wacky fugue (how often does one hear those words together?) on a jaunty subject, beginning on a syncopation, and characterized by an unexpected, dissonant suspension, accented sforzando for humourous effect. The bass line to the subject, introduced in the ‘cello, is worked canonically into the entire exposition as if it were a second subject; hence the exposition functions much like a double fugue, though it doesn’t continue that way. I didn’t take the construction of this fugue too seriously (this was not a counterpoint exercise in earnest), being more interested in keeping it light and quirky; and although the subject begins on the fifth degree of the scale, I decided against the pedantic complexity of devising a tonal answer in the exposition – though otherwise it proceeds conventionally for the most part. Passing dissonances run rampant, and transitions and modulations are often purposely abrupt, taking unexpected turns intended to raise eyebrows, and a smile or two. After a final sequence on a pedal tone and a truncated statement of the subject, even though it feels like the movement should continue, in a rush it throws itself headlong to a sudden, crashing finish as if it hit a brick wall at a run. This is probably the oddest piece of counterpoint I’ve ever written, but I feel the jocular treatment of what is usually by its nature a serious form contrasts well with the sunny warmth and charm of the previous two movements. Premiere: This work was premiered in July 2016 by members of the Octava Chamber Orchestra, a community orchestra in the Seattle, Washington area, as part of a unique concert of Baroque and Classical music by living historicist composers. Although I regret I could not attend the performance, I did receive the recording of it that I have posted here below. The outer movements are played a bit too slowly, and there are some mistakes and inaccuracies; but I’m gratified that the players took the piece seriously and made a sincere attempt at a sensitive interpretation. Overall, it’s one of the better performances I’ve ever received, and I’m quite pleased (to say nothing of being honoured, and very fortunate). Musicians’ and Audience Feedback: My contact with Octava, who played 2nd Violin at the premiere, told me that the musicians loved the piece. Though they found it somewhat challenging here and there, they said it was well written for the instruments and a real pleasure to play, just as I had hoped; divertimenti are supposed to be fun! It was the first work on the programme, and was very warmly received by the audience. Thank you for your kind attention, and enjoy!

To celebrate this day, I've been working on this piece. It's a big canon in prolation. It's not a live performance, so the slurs are for expression (for the software to do them).

Prelúdio e Fuga (SAT).mp3 This is a Prelude and Fugue for recorder trio (soprano, alto and tenor). I composed it for a trio (which was a quartet, but one person gave up) I would take part in, but then the whole group "ceased to exist" without a single rehearsal with everybody (= 3 people). The Prelude and Fugue continues to existe, but now without a concrete destiny. Hope you enjoy^^ OBS: I changed the VST to flutes because Garritan's recorder sound is a scream of pain from hell. OBS2: I didn't put dynamics, articulations or anything else because I'm lazy.

This was my final composition project for last year! The 7(/4) time signature was chosen from the beginning; being the number of days in the week it is meant to symbolise the repetitiveness of life during boring times, when every day feels the same: we feel trapped in the same dream -- everyday. No sadness, no happiness. Just a dream. We feel trapped, we try to escape, we get increasingly desperate... But in the end we all fall back down into our prison. The audio was recorded live -- I am the pianist; the performance was ill-rehearsed (we had very little time) and the higher-quality camera/micro ran out of storage mid recording so I had to upload the low-quality one :P Anyway, please don't get mad at anything different from the score or any mistakes or fumblings (there are many ). Any feedback welcome!! PS: the slurs were meant as phrase markings, not bow slurs. Violin and viola - Richard Tomes & David Wyn Lloyd, teachers at the Academia de Música de São João da Madeira, Aveiro, Portugal.

here is a piece for two violins and one cello. thoughts, feedback, and ideas welcome. trio_no._1.mid

Here's the third and final movement to my trio for guitar, bass, and harmonic series keyboard. Please have a listen and leave any comments, feedback, and criticism as all the feedback I've received has been very valuable so far. Above all, I hope you enjoy it.

Hey everyone! Please check out this trio I wrote for me and my two friends to play. So far only the first movement is completely rendered (ie transcribed from sheetmusic to mp3), but I'll probably have the other two movements done within a week (work permitting). I should mention that the development section is abridged because my friends aren't the most professional of musicians and I wanted to have something they would actually want to play. This synthesized recording was made on LMMS from the original sheet music. The keyboard part plays a plucked string sound sample and is tuned to the 32-note harmonic series scale. Enjoy!

Here's the second movement for my first microtonal trio for guitar, bass guitar, and keyboard tuned to the 32-note Harmonic Series scale. Please leave comments, criticisms, feedback, as even Monarcheon's feedback on the first movement helped a lot. Hope you enjoy it!

So, I'm reposting old stuff because they're somehow gone. This is one of them. Enjoy^^

This is a piece that was done at a competition. It's a piano trio that tells a story of a woman who finds comfort in a solitary tree bathed in sunlight. This piece plays with major vs. minor a lot and tries to stay ambiguous throughout. Hope to hear what you all think!

This is a short Passepied with a Trio for solo violin. I was inspired to write it after studying Bach's Sonatas and Partitas for Violin. The Passepied is in the A mixolydian mode and is broken up into two sections (the first time it appears). The first section is quite soft and light, with the second section being more free and expressive. Two short pentatonic phrases in D major are combined to form the Trio. The piece ends with a recapitulation of the first section of the Passepied. Thanks for listening!

A Trio I composed about 3 years ago in mid-2013 for three friends who were professors at Friends University, Wichita. The unusual instrumentation was first suggested by the contrabassist, who had composed his own very fine piece for himself and the two others to play, and it inspired me to try my own hand at it. Unusual though it may be, the three instruments actually blend quite nicely together. Incidentally, the contrabassist was also a former love interest, which added yet more urgency to this attempt. The players had originally intended to premiere the work in 2014, but the plan fell through for various reasons - not the least being that the piece is somewhat challenging, and it wasn't easy for three university professors to find time to rehearse it sufficiently. In an attempt to garner some publicity, I published the piece on IMSLP, and earlier this year I heard from a trio of young men from Venezuela who had found it online and were planning to perform it. This ensemble of students did indeed premiere the piece in Venezuela in March of this year, albeit substituting 'cello for the contrabass. They did a yeoman's job of performing a piece intended to put professionals through their paces, and their performance may be found here: Scores for the movements are attached.

For works for a piano plus another instrument, such as a violin or cello sonata/trio, do you usually give each individual player parts, or do you give them the full score so that they can see what each player is doing?

What are some good pieces to study brass chamber music writing? I have an assignment to write a brass duo/trio (I chose a trio) due Friday and I haven't been able to find anything decent.