It’s been a while between posts, so here’s some highlights of the year so far.
Last week, I finished two new pieces for the Tasmanian Symphony as part of the 2022-23 Australian Composers’ School. Dark Energy is inspired by the mysterious anti-gravity which is causing the universe to expand at an accelerating rate. Sanctuary is a mediation on home, on places of safety in an unpredictable world. I’ll be heading to Hobart next month for a week of workshops with the TSO and conductor Benjamin Northey, culminating in a concert on August 11.
By happy coincidence, another of my pieces will be performed in Hobart on August 13. Embers, which I wrote over two years ago, will finally receive its premiere from the Hobart Wind Symphony and conductor Simon Reade. There’s also a second performance of Embers to look forward to in later in the year, this time in Brisbane from the Queensland Wind Orchestra.
The performances continue in October and November, with The Laws of Motion due to receive three outings in the USA. Conductor Mark Sforzini will lead the Tampa Bay Symphony Orchestra in performances on October 30, November 1, and November 6. Great to see this piece being played after winning the Audience Choice Award in TBS’s 5th International Composition Competition.
In the second half of the year, my attention is turning to new projects. In May, I received the Layton Emerging Composer Fellowship, a one-year position with the Australia Ensemble. As part of this role, I will be composing two new works for the ensemble. I’ll be starting on the first of these pieces soon and will share more details when I have them.
I’m also delighted to be turning my hand to a work for string orchestra. The Hobart Chamber Orchestra have generously commissioned me to compose a 15-minute piece for their 2023 season. I haven’t written a piece for string orchestra or even string quartet since 2015 – which is somehow seven years ago?? – So I’m really excited for this one.
Finally, I’m proud to announce that I have been offered representation by the Australian Music Centre. My compositions will now be available for purchase and hire through the AMC, making it easy to access and perform my work.