Bestiary Lore II – Changeling

Program Note

Bestiary Lore II – Changeling (2026) is the second work in a series of duo compositions with percussion inspired by bestiary lore. The piece exists in multiple versions for different instrumental pairings, including bassoon+percussion, bass clarinet+percussion, baritone saxophone+percussion, and trombone+percussion. Drawing from fantasy literature and tabletop role-playing games, a bestiary serves as a compendium of creatures, cataloging their attributes, statistics, behaviors, and lore as part of a larger world.

This work takes inspiration from changelings—shapeshifters capable of altering their appearance and adopting new identities at will. Their fluid sense of self, coupled with a natural charisma, allows them to move seamlessly between roles, often operating in secrecy or within small, tightly coordinated groups. Across three movements—what is identity, shady dealings, and leading with charisma—the music explores transformation, instability, and the construction of persona.

Reflecting this, musical materials shift, overlap, and recontextualize themselves, blurring the boundaries between distinct ideas. Quick turns, sly gestures, and groove-driven passages give the music a flexible, shape-shifting character.

Movements

1. what is identity
2. shady dealings
3. leading with charisma

Performance Information

Performance information coming soon.