Welcome to my latest project: a collaboration between some of the finest musicians I’ve met, and a world class orchestra. A dear friend of mine and master conductor, Ovidiu Marinescu recently invited me to join him, virtuoso trombonist Haim Avitsur, and the New Russia State Symphony Orchestra in Moscow to create a new recording called ‘Trombone Modern Masterworks' with three other composers this upcoming January.
I am a Philadelphia-based composer whose music has been commissioned, recorded, and performed by such institutions and ensembles as The International Opera Theater, Philadelphia's Network for New Music, NYC's LINK Ensemble, The 6ixwire Project, and the Csik Chamber Orchestra of Csikszereda, Romania. An active violinist, I lead illumine, a family trio ensemble (violin, voice, piano) that attempts to reform 'classical' music performance practice.
Intrigued by Celtic culture and history, I have chosen to compose a piece about Myrddin the Wild - better known as ‘Merlin’ of Arthurian Legend. Myrddin is figure in medieval Welsh legend - a prophet and a madman who lived in the forest. My piece will be about twelve minutes long and will use a vast variety of orchestral sounds, polyrhythms (simultaneous, contrasting rhythms), haunting harmony, virtuosic solo passagework, and especially, elements of Welsh folk music to portray Myrddin.
As you might imagine, a project of this nature is an expensive endeavor - which is why I have set up this IndieGoGo page. Some of the many expenses involved include:
•Compensating the orchestra (36 people) + Ovidiu and Haim, who are virtually working for free, but require travel, visas, lodging, and other logistical expenses
•Sound engineering and editing
•CD production and distribution
•(optional but ideal) Going over myself to oversee the rehearsal and recording session
$6000 will cover the essential expenses. With this amount, the project will happen. If I can raise more, the project becomes that much better. For example, I could hire more musicians and expand the size of the orchestra itself - or Myrddin could be a longer, more elaborate piece.
Please check out the perks that I've designed to compensate your generosity. From signed copies of the completed CD and score, to music lessons and X-Force training sessions, to personalized new music, I intend to thank you accordingly!