The composition of LIgNEouS 4, the finale of a four-part suite, will build on a history of recent collaborations between myself and composer Andy Akiho. LIgNEouS 4 represents a dramatic conclusion to LIgNEouS 1-3, works written between 2010-14, originally inspired by the architectural sketches of composer and architect Iannis Xenakis. Written for marimba and string quartet, LIgNEouS 1 was commissioned by John and Astrid Baumgardner for the Norfolk Chamber Music Festival in 2010. The suite is one of the most significant additions to the repertoire for marimba and string quartet, has quickly become one of Andy’s iconic works, and is one of my most frequently played pieces.

One hallmark of the LIgNEouS suite is the extended marimba techniques Andy employs – mallet shafts instead of traditional mallets, resonator glissandi, rubber band pizzicati and more. He will continue to find new ways to play the marimba in LIgNEouS 4, creating a rhythmically intense and unique sound world.

Support from New Music USA will go towards the commission fee for LIgNEouS 4, which is being co-commissioned by Chamber Music Northwest. I will present the world premiere of this work at CMNW with the Orion String Quartet during the summer of 2016. The entire LIgNEouS suite will be recorded on CD with the Dover Quartet, and released by Innova Records in the fall of 2016. I will also perform the piece with the Amphion Quartet throughout the season at the Phillips Collection in D.C. and St. Bartholomew’s in Manhattan.