August in York

In early 2008, I was approached by Jerry and Cathy Fischer to compose a new work for Cathy’s brother, Chuck Long. Jerry and Cathy had been long supporters of my music through the Minnesota Commissioning Club, so I was thrilled to have the chance to work with them again. August in York is a combination of two things that are important to Chuck: Jazz music (Autumn in New York) and York, Pennsylvania. The piece includes a direct homage to the famous jazz tune, during which the soloist has the opportunity to play an improvised solo, if desired.