Before I Drown In Tears

for saxophone octet​

"Before I Drown In Tears​" was written for a family of saxophones, and the inspiration for it began much like the first dot of paint that is placed on a blank canvas, which subsequently drips into its own individual unique path. This musical phenomenon also occurs throughout the entire piece in various instances when a single monophonic tone is observed. The eight saxophones reflect one another while speaking in unison, even though they each contribute individually to the overall feel of the piece - much like a conversation among a group of people that takes its own path. Sometimes, the drip of paint goes directly down, while at other times, it may veer to the left or to the right. In the piece, this translates to instances where the saxophones sometimes juxtapose and sometimes synthesize one another.

Photos of the recording session on October 31st, 2017
Recital Studio, Butler School of Music

Photos of the world premiere on April 4th, 2017
Recital Studio, Butler School of Music