Carpe diem

Program Note

Carpe Diem is the first piece I have written for wind ensemble. This, despite that several of my compositions have been arranged for wind ensemble and, currently, I am at work on a large, symphonic work for the United States Marine Band. It is in Carpe Diem that have discovered the thrilling, bright colors that only a wind ensemble can produce in this short, energetic concert-opener.

The inspiration for this piece originates from my close friend and colleague, Christopher Cicconi. When Chris joined the faculty at Towson University, I immediately found someone who spoke the same “language” as I, both in music and in many “life” topics as well. We have since have become close friends and, over the years, I observed Chris develop a close rapport with his students. When Chris’s father, Clemente, passed away in 2018, I wanted to write a piece that commemorated his late father and, at the same time, celebrates the growing legacy that Chris is creating in his own work as a conductor and mentor.

Clemente Cicconi’s favorite expression was “Carpe Diem” and always encouraged everyone to do their best, with his trademark $2 bill that he would hand out – one of which hangs in my office. Carpe Diem is a bright, optimistic piece that develops two themes. Though both themes are contrasting in nature, they are both bright harmonically, representing Clemente’s positive attitude. The first theme is rhythmic and syncopated; the second is lyrical and grand. Both themes vie for the listener’s attention, enthusiastically alternating until they both combine in the final moments of the work. The flare, sparkle, and verve in this piece could only come alive through a wind ensemble.