A rainstorm can be a cathartic, spiritual event. In the moments before a storm, the air may appear still, but there is an overarching eeriness pulsating through the sky. A sudden lightning strike electrifies the neighboring clouds. As the resultant downpour cascades to the ground, it cleanses the earth and gives life to the flora hoping to quench their thirst, but if extreme, it can also create a torrential flood and uproot everything in its path. This piece, Cloudburst, captures this phenomenon from the dense layering of raindrops to gusts of wind.
Many thanks to the Southeast Michigan Flute Association (SEMFA) for commissioning this piece for their 20th Anniversary. I am grateful to this organization for their constant nurturing support for me as a young musician and for all of their work inspiring our local community.
