The piece begins with a single note: soft and low. From this lone ember, a slow burn works its way through the first section, building in intensity as it moves the range ever higher. After a brief nod to the beginning, the piece suddenly ignites into the fast and percussive second section. The mood changes in the middle of the second section, momentarily lyrical and flowing, while keeping its driving tempo. The piece finishes with a modified recap of the initial fiery theme. While "Awakening Fire" is intended to be played as a single, two-section piece, each section can stand on its own. Suitable for recitals and solo and ensemble contests. Originally composed for bass clarinet, the piece should transfer well to Eb contra-alto or possibly Bb contrabass. Duration: 5:50 MP3 performed by the composer. Video performed by claribaixos.

For this Christmas here is a dramatic Fantasia for Instrumental Quartet based on the old English carol God Rest You Merry Gentlemen. It is an eclectic fusion of Classical music and 1950's Free Jazz and West Indian/Caribbean rhythms with exuberance and pulse. It is in verse-refrain form, but is very freely treated and each of the four verses is wholly unique. Every single note is written to express, and sometimes expand upon, the word of the text at that point in time. There is an irregular meter which changes every few bars using 2/4, 3/4, 4/4, 5/4, 6/4, and 7/4 but always maintaining a strong pulse. It contains abrupt changes in dynamics and a rubato tempo with many markings of articulation. This is a challenging work with dynamic results.
19 page score, 4 pages each part; 35 pages total
4:45 minutes

This challenging variation on the traditional Christmas tune is a great addition to your ensemble's holiday program. Beginning with a simple statement of the theme, enjoy a journey through multiple styles with nods to some of classical music's greatest hits. Suitable for advanced high-school groups and above. ? Includes score (8-pg) and parts for Clarinet 1 in B-flat, Clarinet 2 in B-flat, Clarinet 3 in B-flat and Bass Clarinet in B-flat