Piano Sextet
I began composing this piano sextet around the year 2000, intrigued by the expressive potential of the octatonic scale—an eight-note collection alternating whole and half steps. From the outset, my aim was to create a work that pushed the boundaries of this complex harmonic system while remaining melodically clear, emotionally engaging, and accessible to the listener.

I. Monolithic

The first movement, titled Monolithic, is built on a strong architectural foundation, which gives the piece both its name and its character. It is grounded in a clear formal design that features a bold, declarative primary theme and a contrasting, more lyrical secondary theme. The structure is carefully constructed, with musical “landmarks” that align with key structural nodes in the octatonic system. These stopping points provide a sense of orientation and balance within the tonally rich and ambiguous landscape.

Though rooted in rigorous form, the movement aims to retain a sense of momentum and spontaneity. It was this synthesis of structure and expressiveness that led to its selection for broadcast on Nashville radio in 2000 as part of a local composers showcase.