UCLA

Concerto for Percussion and Orchestra follows an emotional trajectory akin to the K�bler-Ross model of the stages of grief, where the first movement represents a state of denial and anger, followed by a sense of depression and negotiation, and finally a feeling of acceptance and optimism. The soloist can be considered the protagonist of this abstract narrative, while the orchestra is the society around the protagonist. At first the soloist and orchestra are at odds with each other, symbolized by the use of contrasting textures and interruption, but by the end they become unified both emotionally and texturally. This piece serves as a reflection of the emotional rollercoaster experienced by many during the recent coronavirus pandemic. Composed for percussionist Daniel LaFrance with an intended premiere in November 2021.