The premiere of my latest chamber music composition, Momentum [chamber ensemble, dance, and video] went very well tonight. The performance was accurate and spirited. Valerie Ifill’s choreography was wonderful and the dancer, Kristin Ramirez delivered an outstanding performance. Seth Rouser’s video for the piece was a high-energy blend of stills and video of Winthrop University fine arts faculty works, including some of his own work. The players really rose to the occasion. Momentum features alto saxophonist Tracy Patterson, who played beautifully. The chamber ensemble played exceptionally well and I was very happy with the performance. The ensemble included Jill O’Neill, flute, David Kulma, oboe, Deborah Loomer, clarinet, Tracy Patterson, alto saxophone, Tomoko Deguchi, piano, L.H. Dickert, guitar, and Thomas Hildreth, bass. Bravo to all these fine players.
The occasion was the Winthrop University College of Visual and Performing Arts Showcase. The showcase was part of a week-long celebration which will culminate with the inauguration of Winthrop University’s 10th president, Dr. Jayne Marie Comstock on Friday, March 28. Dr. Comstock was in attendance and seemed sincerely moved by the performance. The performance was recorded and video taped. As soon as I have access to the video I will post it on my videos page.