The quest for originality

A few weeks ago, I dropped off a friend who was giving a composition master class with some young composers. When I came back from my rehearsal to retrieve him, they were winding down, but I was asked to respond to a young composer who queried, “Do you think it...

Celebrating Avi’s graduation

This weekend we celebrate Avi’s graduation from high school. Here is a video of his high school combo playing the latest chart that he wrote. The start is a little rocky, but they eventually settle into a groove. I think it is a most excellent and hip tune. He...

David Clark Isele: Celebration Requiem

My first composition teacher was David Clark Isele. I remember the joy and intimidation I felt when I was introduced to an actual living composer. The first work of David’s that I listened to with great regularity was his “Celebration Requiem”. ...