FREDERICK, MD

FREDERICK, MD is a piece I wrote to honor my family, especially my grandparents, who live in Frederick and were a huge part of my life growing up. While I was raised in Ellicott City, I spent many holidays and occassions in Frederick surrounded by family. These gatherings, always full of laughter and joy, became some of my most meaningful memories. Aside from these gatherings, my grandparents were always huge supporters of my life. They came to every concert, every sports game, and every big moment in my life. They especially supported my pursuit of music, helping me purchase instruments and supplies I needed and cheering me on at every concert.

My grandfather passed away on June 27, 2023. Not seeing him at the family gatherings or in the audience has been a constant reminder of that loss. I had always known I wanted to write a piece to honor him and my family, and I decided writing a jazz ensemble piece would best do that. My grandparents always loved jazz and those concerts were their favorites to attend, so writing a jazz piece seemed best. The piece opens with a short, reflective wind chorale as a short elegy to my grandfather. After, it shifts to a medium swing waltz that is more upbeat. This piece is not meant to be sad, it is meant to be a celebration of the experiences that I had with my family, and the love I have for both my grandfather and my grandmother for helping me become who I am today.

FREDERICK, MD was commissioned by Mark Williams and premiered by the University of Maryland Jazz Ensemble in 2025.

INSTRUMENTATION:

Alto Saxophone I/II (Flute)

Tenor Saxophone I/II (Clarinet)

Baritone Saxophone (Bass Clarinet)

Trumpet/Flugelhorn 1-4

Trombone 1-4

Electric Guitar

Piano

Acoustic Bass

Drum Set

SOLOS: Piano | Trumpet II | Alto Saxophone I