Welcome to my website! Herein you will find information about my career as a composer and performer, which includes score and audio excerpts of my work, as well as information about upcoming performances.
As a composer, I construct my music so that melodic fragments, or motives, develop into melodies that function not only on the surface, but also on the structural level — the smaller pitch and rhythmic elements of my compositions are interrelated to form, and horizontal events are interconnected with vertical sonority. Further, an overarching tonal framework, which is based upon the intervals found within the motive, functions to solidify each component and encourage forward motion.
I often use the folk and liturgical music of Russia as a source of creative inspiration. I am also enamored with the music of Stravinsky, Shostakovich, Schnittke, Tarnopolski, and many other composers now living in Russia. I love the music of French composers Messaien and Boulez, as well as the pure counterpoint of Bach's compositions. I am deeply inspired by the music of many American composers such as George Crumb, Elliot Carter, David Gompper, and Marilyn Shrude. From this list, it may appear that my tastes vary much, but what I think determines a great composition is not based upon aesthetic, but upon how well the composer is able to provide the listener with a unique and purposeful experience. When I listen to music, I want to forget about everything else and be swept away in the moment.
I hope you will find something useful within these pages and be swept away!
