Program Notes

I have always had an affinity for the night sky and have, on and off throughout the years, often turned to stargazing as a hobby. Many of my fondest memories from my childhood are visiting observatories and planetariums are learning about the cosmos. Among a Sea of Stars… was born from one of those instances of staring at the starry night. One winter night, while I was walking my dog I happened to notice the light glistening on the snowy banks. Combined with the starry night above me, it felt like I was surrounded by above and below by a sea of stars. Compositionally, this piece is loosely based around a chaconne as I wanted to limit myself to no more than four chords at a time in any given section. The piece evokes the feeling I experienced that wintry night. Wandering among a sea of stars across the vastness of space. This piece is dedicated to all who find joy in stargazing.