 I am a composer and music educator and this site features various works of mine. Whether you are a music educator, a professional musician or student, please check out my pieces for concert band, jazz ensemble, brass quintet, woodwind ensemble and orchestra. For information on where to purchase a piece, follow the link to the publisher's website or contact me. I hope you enjoy my music. For information on commissioning a work for your band or orchestra or to inquire about composer workshops, please contact me via this web site. Thank you for visiting. See you soon,  |
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All the key ingredients you would expect on this timeless swing tune and it’s accessible to rehearse and play. Features include the iconic drum pattern as it recurs throughout, easy brass ranges with trumpet 1 to written E top space, no horn solos but there is a written drum solo and a big shout chorus at the modulation brings it all home. Great tune—an essential chart to your jazz ensemble library. |
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“The Huron Carol” is Canada's oldest Christmas carol, written in 1643 by Jean de Brébeuf, a Jesuit missionary. The melody is from a tradition French folk song, "Une Jeune Pucelle" (A Young Maid). Intended as a gift and teaching aid to the Huron people, Brébeuf wrote the lyrics in their native language. The Moon of Winter is a powerful and moving adaptation of this carol for string orchestra that will enhance your next Christmas concert, adding a sense of reverence and honor. |
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Here’s a drivin’ rock chart that’ll grab you with its infectious hook and way cool, blues-centric tune. Written solos are for alto sax and trumpet. Dig the hip bridge. Audiences and band alike will not be able to resist groovin’ to this chart. |
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This medium swing arrangement of the dreamy Ellington tune will cook at just about any tempo but the recommend tempo is 108 BPM. The chart features a written tenor sax solo and a lot of interplay between the brass and saxes. It’s even got a 4-bar stop-time section for a rhythmic contrast. The Duke would be pleased that you’re playing one of his songs on your next concert program. |
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“Invocation” is defined as the act of invoking or calling upon a deity or spirit for aid, protection, or inspiration, while a “Psalm” is a sacred song or poem. Magnificent, celebratory, and triumphant are words that aptly describe the opening of this exciting new work. After a powerful opening fanfare, the main theme (Invocation) is presented and interlaced with florid woodwind passages and driving rhythms. A simple but evocative melody, garnished with lush harmony, captures the essence of the Psalm. A return to the original theme brings us to an uplifting conclusion. This piece was commissioned by the St. Michael's College School Senior Band (Toronto, Canada) for the opening of their new theatre. Invocation and Psalm is an exhilarating concert opener for any occasion. |
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From the shores of Canada's east coast comes this simple but beautiful folk melody. This lovely arrangement of Cape Breton Lullaby offers an excellent opportunity for teaching expression and lyrical playing while adding a refreshing change of pace to your next concert program. Your audiences will savor this charming touch of Nova Scotia. |
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This festive concert overture is sure to add a sparkle to your next program. It features wonderful melodic lines and colorful harmonies with a healthy portion of ebullient rhythms added to the recipe. All of this energy is contrasted by a lyrical section sure to inspire higher levels of expressive playing from your young musicians. An excellent choice for contest and festival programs! |
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This inspirational setting for band will provide a refreshing change of pace for your next concert. It is one of Canada's most popular folk songs and a favourite with Boy Scouts, Girl Guides, and campers of all ages. |
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Greek mythology is the source of inspiration for this new piece for young band. A Chimera is a fi re-breathing monster with a lion’s head, a goat’s body, and a serpent’s tail. Fearsome indeed! But just as dynamic is this musical tale of valor depicting a warrior knight’s epic quest to defeat the beast. Spirited harmonies and energetic rhythms abound, contrasting perfectly with a moving lyrical section. This work was commissioned by the Ottawa Catholic School Board (Canada) in collaboration with the University of Ottawa and premiered by St. Mark Catholic High School (Manotick, Ontario). |
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Copyright 2007 Vince Gassi