Two large works in progress

In 1993, I composed a piece for symphony orchestra called Karankawa. This 8-minute tone poem is a depiction of the encounter between the French settlers under LaSalle and the Native Americans who inhabited Matagorda Bay in Texas - the Karankawas. The piece incorporates an authentic American Indian song, a 17th-centry French-sounding folk song, as well as typical Turner-esque melodies and harmonies. During the month of October 2005 while recovering from a hernia operation, I traveled to Mr. Geof Winter's house, where the two of us collaborated on a re-orchestration for symphonic band. I truly believe this piece is one of my finer works, and it might have found its proper setting with the symphonic band.

Another interesting bit of news: I have finally begun work on my 1st symphony, inspired by elements from the Holy Grail legends. I'm not in a position to reveal much information about the piece, but I assure you it's going to be a hornfest!!