"Pathways"

The "NachtMusik" series is inspired by the music of the early twentieth century serialist composers, particularly Arnold Schoenberg. The black squares each represent one of the twelve notes of the musical scale. Each is given equal weight, and there are no repetitions in any of the rows or columns in which they appear. These constitute the "melody" or tone row providing a foundation upon which the rest of the composition is based. In most instances, there are also counter themes comprised of squares of different color, or squares which are only partially filled. These represent the three variations possible in the context of Schoenberg's principles: inversion (upside down), retrograde (backward), or retrograde inversion (upside down and backward). The other symbols or elements provide a sort of harmonic structure, as well as dynamic gradations, such as crescendo/decrescendo, and are arranged in such a way as to maintain balance and rhythm against a more neutral background. These elements often occur in groups of triplets arranged in such a way as to suggest interwoven contrapuntal motifs, which also constitute a type of rhythm and serve to integrate all of the other components within each composition. Many of these elements unmistakably evoke the Southwest in terms of palette and symbolism, thereby reconciling ancient and contemporary aesthetics.

“Symphonic Variations,” comprise a group of works which loosely suggest a 3 or 4 movement musical piece, such as a symphony or concerto. While the elements are derived from the NachtMusik series, these works are much freer and improvisational. The outer sections are “busier,” whereas the middle sections are less so, suggestive of the structure of a typical classical composition.