A Sample Of My Music
When I am working on a new piece I give free rein to whatever the music is expressing. Sometimes it is in a particular style, sometimes it is a combination of styles, and sometimes I do not know what to call it. If the music gives me a smile or laugh, that is all I need to know.
Fanfare
Fanfare was inspired by Brazilian brass bands. It was written for music students at the Sandy Spring Friends School in Maryland. This music has an exuberant spirit with samba rhythms churning under contemporary harmonic voicings. It is intended to be a short piece; however, the vamp at the end can be extended with a solo or collective improvisation. Another option is to have a percussion intro before the horn section enters with the opening chords. Recorded by David Arivett.
New Tango No. 2: Mystery
I am deeply attracted to tango nuevo and to Astor Piazzolla's music. My tangos are written in a personal style and are not intended to be like conventional ballroom tango music. They draw upon jazz and at times have a touch of contemporary classical. In a curious way, several musician friends have told me that they hear a Frank Zappa influence in some of my tangos. I suspect that is due to the humor that runs through much of my music.
This piece is part of a series of tango-jazz compositions. Each one explores a particular quality of the tango. Number 2 expresses a mysterious mood and has a touch of blues. Recorded by Amy Leonard, violin; Jeff Knoettner, keyboards; E. Shawn Qaissaunee, guitar; and Peter McCarthy, bass.
This piece is part of a series of tango-jazz compositions. Each one explores a particular quality of the tango. Number 2 expresses a mysterious mood and has a touch of blues. Recorded by Amy Leonard, violin; Jeff Knoettner, keyboards; E. Shawn Qaissaunee, guitar; and Peter McCarthy, bass.
Blues For Lester
Blues For Lester is an extended piece for mid-size ensemble with an eclectic blend of jazz, funk, contemporary classical, and blues. It is an expression of my admiration for Lester Young, the great tenor saxophonist, who had many quirky qualities in his music. Recorded by David Arivett.
Sunset On The Chesapeake
The Chesapeake Bay is a national treasure. An especially beautiful time to be on the Chesapeake is at sunset. This piece is dedicated to the Chesapeake Bay Foundation and all of those who are working to restore and protect the Bay. Recorded by James Barr, guitar.
Rubber Chicken Rag
Rubber Chicken Rag draws upon American roots music; however, it is not a traditional kind of rag. It is meant to be fun and audacious. Listen for the shifting time, fragmented phrases, and other craziness. Performers can take the music in any creative direction they want to go with it. Recorded by Amy Leonard, violin; E. Shawn Qaissaunee, guitar; and Peter McCarthy, bass.
Uxmal At Midnight
Uxmal At Midnight is a slow tango. The tune is fairly simple however it has a beauty that invokes images of this magical place. Recorded by Amy Leonard, violin; Jeff Knoettner, keyboards; E. Shawn Qaissaunee, guitar; and Peter McCarthy, bass.