Inspired by Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 5 ‘Emperor’ comes my own first Piano Concerto for Piano and String Orchestra, also in Eb Major. In Emperor, described by some as triumphant, belligerent yet subtle, the power and precision of the music resonates so clearly as only Beethoven at this age could and did. His music is so distinctive, and for me, he is not only an inspiration but teacher.

In my humble opinion, no music is as “delicious” as a Piano Concerto. This new music, with its big chords, versatility of the keyboard, themes and harmony, was a pleasure to compose. I regret COVID-19 kept me from adding woodwinds and brass, but I hope to add in the near future, when we shed the masks and live life normally.