A couple of months ago I had a wonderful conversation with a dear friend about a new group she was co-founding: the Seattle-based octet Nothing Gold. That led to a discussion of contemporary music that might fit their February program… and here I am, writing a set of pieces for them! Specifically, a set of three meditations on ephemerality called "Like a Petal", on texts by Sara Teasdale, Edna St. Vincent Millay, and Robert Frost. The final movement, “Nothing Gold Can Stay”, sets the famous Frost poem that gives the group its name.

I'm energized and inspired to be writing music on a theme I care a lot about-- longtime followers will see the philosophical connection to “All is Mere Breath," for example-- and especially for such a high-quality and brand-new ensemble. This is my first performance in Seattle, and I plan to attend if the logistics work out; Seattle-area folks, you can already buy tickets. I hope to see you there!