6’00”
composed 2005
premiered by the Fresno State Wind Orchestra (Fresno, California)
Composer’s Note
Separation Anxiety is a deceptive work. At first glance quick syncopated rhythms, jazzy undertones, and a grooving bass line seem to indicate an energetic, yet self-confident piece of music. This is further highlighted by a light and bouncy theme presented first by the alto saxophone and the flute, then later transformed into an energetic blues theme. However, underneath these surface textures lies an overwhelming sense of alarm and self-doubt that slowly, but inevitably, emerges in full force. Themes that once were clear and unified begin to separate away from one another, either in harmony or in canon. Musical motives that can be likened to sirens slowly begin to dominate the jazz-inspired texture. Expressions of anxiety and panic overtake any sense of confidence presented earlier in the work. The work climaxes in the musical equivalent of a panic attack, leaving behind "bells of alarm" chiming away in perpetuity.