Music performance - especially new music performance - is challenging and dynamic.  And it is especially exciting for both musicians and audience to feel a part of the artistic process. Over the years I have found that workshops done in conjunction with programming deepen an organization or group's musical performance experience and add a great deal of value.

The following are just a few examples of successful workshops I have given. I am happy to work with you to create a unique workshop to fit your needs. Contact me with questions about any of the following workshop topics or to discuss a new idea.

A Conversation with the Composer

I am available to give pre or post concert talks about a commissioned piece.  After a short talk describing the piece, I open the floor to questions. The question-and-answer format engages both listeners and performers and adds depth to their experience.

Painting with Sound: Creating Music Together

The best way to understand music composition is to experience it!  This is a great workshop to have when an ensemble of musicians can participate to perform the new piece.  Attendees collaborate on a world premier using colored markers on large sheets of butcher block  paper.  People of any musical skill level and age can participate! 

Creating a New Piece of Music

This workshop,  though specific to my personal process, sparks inspiration and offers insight into this creative adventure.

• Tapping the underground river
• Where intellectual and spiritual realms meet
• Decisions, decisions, decisions!
• Creating an environment where serendipity is recognizable and welcome
• Bulletin Boards
• Getting stuck and getting unstuck
• Trusting instinct
• A Double Bar

Talking about Text: Setting Words to Music

• How I find and recognize an appropriate text
• How text becomes musical context
• What to consider when  writing for the human voice
• Finding the music in the words

Creating a Life in Music: The Keys to a Career in Music Composition

The nuts-and-bolts to building a long-term professional career in music composition: 

• How to get from “here to there” – the steps in an effective action plan
• Who commissions work, how to find them, and how to get paid
• What a robust body of work and recordings looks like
• How to organize your business to maximize composition time
• Who can help along the way

Composition Master Classes

Master classes are tailored to the needs of the institution and designed to address the specific emphasis of the seminar.  I prefer to view these as a roundtable discussions where a free exchange of ideas takes place rather than one-way critiques of student work.