Today I had a fabulous time working with some young and talented composers at Southwest High School in Minneapolis. I got to listen to two works. One was for trombone, cello, and percussion. I thought the trombone line was quite well done, using a nice, open range, and with some tweaking in the cello and percussion, the piece will develop into some fine music.
The second work I listened to was for two violins. The music had a relatively strong mastery over developing a consistent harmonic soundscape. Where it lacked in expressive markings, the performers made up for it. (Still, I stressed the importance of providing just as much attention to dynamics and articulation and so forth as we do to pitch.)
Then I spent a fleeting moment in a quick impromptu studio lesson with another student who showed me a piece for marimba, glock, and timpani. I could tell that his ear was already attuned to how to use different timbres of instruments to create some lush colors. Maybe we have a future Ravel on our hands. Who’s to know? (Actually I dislike it when people suggest, “Are they the next so-and-so?” So, I’ll just say instead that we may have a future colorist on our hands.)
All things considered, I look forward to returning to work with the students again. And, if you are one of the Southwest students I met and you happen to be reading this, don’t hesitate to send me a note my way if you’re interested in further study.
Also, my thanks to Keith Liuzzi for having me. I had a great time!