Here are a few examples of my work!
1. The Munras Suite
In September of 2025, a small group of musicians from Monterey High School were invited to play for visiting guests from our sister city of Nanao, Japan, during the Monterey Jazz Festival. From a “composerly” standpoint, I had to integrate: 1. The number of students (as there was a limited performance venue footprint) 2. It needed to be jazz inspired (obviously!) 3. We had a somewhat unique instrumentation (rhythm section, flute, two saxes, trumpet, violin, and cello) 4. I wanted it to feature the beauty of the Monterey Bay Area 5. It featured certain student soloists 6. It needed a duration so it didn’t feel repetitive, but also not too much for students to rehearse and learn in a few weeks 7. Super important: it needed to be appropriate to accompany distinguished dignitaries and local leaders having dinner! Here is an example of the fifth movement (of seven), “Cannery Row”:
2. Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland
I wrote our show for Monterey High School’s Fall 2026 show. We have a very strong front ensemble, a drumline just getting started (but with lots of drive and talent), limited winds, and a brand-new color guard. This is a super fun show where an Alice (actor) acts with the Rabbit, and the Cheshire cat has a sweet alto sax solo! Here is a two minute example from the beginning of the show: Alice sleeps by the river, is approached by the Rabbit, and climbs through the Rabbit Hole (through some fabric in one of our props). At the hit point, the entire band and color guard are front and center
Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland Audio
3. The Four Feathers
I also wrote our Winterguard Show! This was loosely based upon the novel “The Four Feathers,” where a figure must attempt four different challenges in order to find redemption. It is in four seamless movements, based upon different natural settings (Earth, Water, Forest, Fire).
4. Symphony No. 1 for Wind Ensemble
I wrote this for my dissertation at an advanced University level, but this gives you an idea of what I can write for an experienced group.
5. A Drumline “Show”
When I moved back to California in 2018, I was surprised to find that most local drum lines (not marching band drumlines, but ones in shows) not only included mallet percussion (usually bell sets), but they also did choreography! I guess I was behind the times or something. Here is something I wrote for our 2026 “drum battle” - it was meant to be intense, and there are several Dies irae quotations.
6. Parade Letters
I made these for Monterey High – I am the son of a sign painter, after all! These ones are a square/diamond shape measuring 30” x 30” (there are lots of other shapes possible). Each one is held by a student (generally color guard member, but can be otherwise). The letters are made of gold sequins that are Gorilla glued to the surface, and the background is green glitter. They are water resistant and very durable! These can come in all shapes, colors, etc.
