Rhapsody was composed as a tribute to my University Band Director, Dr. Ralph Hultgren. It was under Dr. Hultgren’s baton that I was introduced to the great works for concert band, and it was through his music and tutorage that I developed my own compositional voice. He has had such an important influence on my development as a musician, teacher, conductor and composer.

Rhapsody contains some subtle, and some not so subtle, references to Ralph's work and my memories of playing in bands under his musical direction. Rhapsody was premiered in August 2014 at a concert celebrating Dr. Hultgren’s contribution to music and music education, by a band made up entirely of former students and colleagues.

Sample Score