A Simple Place (2011)
four performance options:
1. solo violin and stereo playback
2. string quartet and stereo playback
3. solo violin and string ensemble (solo violin plus 8 violins, 3 violas, 4 cellos)
4. Any combination of live parts above plus stereo playback (email me for details)
Commissioned by Musiqa and Todd Reynolds

In my composition A Simple Place, I am trying to convey the space we all hopefully have, where we are at peace and relaxed. A space where we are not distracted, a space where we are totally comfortable. It could be a physical place or just exist in our minds. We could have found this space, or we could still be looking. While my own experiences informed the creation of the work—coming home, long-time friends, acceptance—my intention is that all listeners will hear their own journey to their Simple Place.

The solo part is completely notated, with optional improvised sections. All pre-recorded tracks performed by Todd Reynolds (violins, violas) and Paul de Jong (cellos)