Program notes:

The opportunity to write a new work for a group as talented as LA Sound Circle afforded me the opportunity and freedom to create a challenging and intricate work, as well as the chance to explore a wide pallet of sounds.

Encircling Andreas is not programmatic, but as I starting point I looked towards the relationship between potential and kinetic energy. Texture, rather than any specific melodic or harmonic element, gives the first movement its form. The principle idea, which is quick and pulsating, is twice interrupted by brief moments of contrasting texture and tempo.

The second movement is generally more serene. The ensemble finds itself interacting more homogenously, as opposed to the independent strata of the first movement. Architecturally, a more intuitive or even improvisational approach led to the form of this movement. I hear the music as having an air of seriousness, which is tempered by occasional “winks,” as though it is not taking itself too seriously.

I would like to thank LA Sound Circle for this opportunity, and the honor of having my music included on their first concert.

-SG