Ho(l)mes
Between the ages of 10-31, the longest I continuously lived in one house was for two and a half years. Many times, I was not only moving houses but also states, provinces, or continents. During two and a half years in my early 20s, the longest I continuously lived in the same house was for three months at a time, so even some places that I stayed for a month began to feel like home very quickly. Moving frequently in this way caused me to reflect on how I related to each place - how it shaped me and how I shaped it. This collection is the musical version of some of those reflections.
Works to be Included
Detroit Renaissance
for Piano Trio and Reciter(s) or Tape
I was born in the Detroit area, but after experiencing life in many different places, it felt less like home than almost anywhere else. This piece was my chance to use others' stories of what they found special about Detroit to inspire my music and my own pride in where I now live.
Family Ho(l)mes Videos
for Orchestra and Film
A tribute to my family history, my ancestors' immigration to the state of Iowa from England and Germany, my parents' fateful meeting at a piano, and everything that has been passed down through the generations.
Kubugam Kakaruk
for Woodwind Quintet
Kubugam, Madang, Papua New Guinea was a one-month home where I became fast friends with my local host family, transcribed many rooster ("kakaruk") crows, collected stories on an adventurous visit for Easter, and sought out the advice of a French nun as I considered my vocation and lack of marriage prospects.
Sepik Suite
for Soprano Saxophone and Slide Show
I lived in Yukilau in the Sepik region of Papua New Guinea for several months at a time. This piece reflects on some of the topographical, culinary, and musical experiences I associate with my time there.
Ukarumpa Balus
for Oboe and Tape
When I think of what place feels the most like home, I always come up with Ukarumpa, Eastern Highlands, Papua New Guinea, yet I've never lived in Ukarumpa for more than two and a half years at a time! One of the most defining features of my most precious home is the airstrip where constant greetings and farewells take place. Airplanes ("balus") divide and unite me from my friends and from my home.