Special Thanks and Gratitude

My life as a composer would be nothing if it were not for my two professors, Larry Nelson and Robert Maggio. Both have given me support and love that has been priceless and crucial to my current state of confidence and maturity. Their music is also truly inspiring. I don't know (yet) where to find Larry's music on the web, but Rob has his own page via his publisher [Theodore Presser].

Some of my favourite works of these two:

Larry Nelson	Robert Maggio
Excelsior for String Quartet	Big Top for orchestra
The Starry Messenger for Flute and Piano	Winter Toccatta for solo cello
Auramotion for Wind Controller and Max	Internal Rhythms for percussion ensemble

I think I would have gone absolutely insane if it wasn't for Jennifer Shaffer. Both of us started our composition degree at the same time and have gone through a lot together, especially in the past year. From our CD Burning/GRE Weekend From Hell to our stress about grad school, to our wonderful concerts together, it's been such a wonderful honor to be a part of her life and her music. She is a wonderful composer and wonderful person, and i'm rather sad that we are parting ways after our last West Chester concert together on July 20th.

Some great Jenni Shaffer works

Shapes for clarinet, oboe, viola, bassoon, double bass, piano, and percussion
The River: A song cycle for mezzo-soprano, flute, oboe, violin, double bass, piano, and percussion
The Arrival for orchestra (and two electric guitars, and electric piano... :)

I also have to give thanks to: Donald Nally, Richard Gangswich, Kate McQuiston, and James Sullivan for directly helping my progress as a composer. Millions of other thanks need to go out too, but those people know who they are.

A special thanks needs to go to the Washington Township drum line members and staff - you are my family, you are my home, you are everything.