Together

for violin and viola, 2023
commissioned by andPlay with support from Chamber Music America

“Together” explores the simple yet profound act of touch—whether between the players themselves or between player and instrument. Using custom-built electronic instruments called Connecting Gloves, I drew inspiration from childhood hand games and their eventual evolution into independent relationships. The musical material traverses playful interactions and introspective reflections to create a web of memories. The gloves trigger samples and effects throughout the piece, expanding the sound world of the acoustic instruments.

I invite players to begin by reflecting on an unresolved relationship, someone with whom they have lost contact whether by chance or choice, and to write four sentences they wish they could express to that person. The performance opens with these intimate whispered messages, gently unfolding into a collective hum, and finally extending into breath-like melodies.