I am enthralled by the line and curve of melody and rich, rhythmic textures and layers.
My special passion is for choral music and art song because of their unique capacity to convey emotion through the voice. My broad experience as a singer and choral conductor has helped me become uniquely sensitive for voice, writing for children, professionals, and all levels in between.
From the individuals’ sounds I strive to create a “company of voices,” incorporating the distinct qualities of the singers into an orchestral texture. My influences vary from medieval chant and polyphony to gospel and folk.
“Others have described my music as austere but also luscious and fun; I embrace this seeming contradiction.”
My Experience as a Composer
I have composed more than fifty works and have been awarded the prestigious McKnight Composer Fellowship as well as numerous grants from the Jerome Foundation, the Metropolitan Regional Arts Council, the Minnesota State Arts Board, and two Faith Partners residencies.
My compositions have been commissioned and performed by The Rose Ensemble, Cantus, and The Singers; by the tiny Village Church in downtown Milwaukee and large All-State Honor choirs in Minnesota, North Dakota, and Nebraska; and by the vibrant community choirs Calliope Women’s Chorus and One Voice Mixed Chorus. My compositions have been performed at the Schubert Club and the Basilica of St. Mary in the Twin Cities, the Getty Art Museum and Carnegie Hall on the coasts, as well as in many school gymnasiums and small churches.
Includes my bio and several images.