Concerto for Clarinet, 2016/2022 (Grade 4, 16:00)

My Concerto for Clarinet is one of the most meaningful compositions in my life. I composed this work in memory of my dear friend, Matt Ball. Matt’s clarinet teacher, Dr. Mac Hinson, collaborated with me in brining this piece to life. Matt’s friendship was an unexpected, but joyful one. When four of my closest friends came to Indianapolis in March 2015 for my MM recital, he was one of them. I didn’t know that would be the last time that I would see him. In the summer of 2015, Matt found out that he had very aggressive brain cancer. On September 29th, 2015, Matt passed away. It’s hard for me to type into words how much his friendship meant, but I’ve found more peace through this music. The foundation of this piece comes from the opening of the Sibelius Violin Concerto. Matt would play the record of that piece quite often in undergrad. It brings back beautiful memories and when this piece is performed, for about 16 minutes, it feels he’s still alive. This piece starts with my last memory of Matt in Indianapolis and ends with the passing of his life and reflection of the fun memories we made. The premiere was in May of 2016 at Fort Zumwalt South HS (MO). In Spring of 2022, an additional 4th movement was composed for a special performance in Cleveland, Ohio with the Notre Dame College Wind Symphony.

Here is a program note written by Emily Murdoch, Matt’s fiancé: HERE

I. Indianapolis (3:30)

II. Brain Cancer (4:00)

III. The Sphere Unleashed (4:00)

IV. Many Years Later (4:30)

Score Sample: HERE

Cost: $200 for PDF score/parts. Contact me directly to purchase.