Pastorale was composed for my daughter Emily’s wedding on October 9, 2021. She and her husband Kyle had a beautiful outdoor ceremony at the shores of a lake in New Hampshire, and this music served as their processional. Emily is a sweet, kind, thoughtful, selfless, and loving young woman and I am so proud of her and everything she has accomplished. As the oldest child, she has been a strong and nurturing presence in our lives, always thinking of others first and generously giving of herself at all times.

 Pastorale, my first work for solo guitar, uses as its inspiration a set of pitches that has been extraordinarily meaningful for me over the years, serving as a reminder to appreciate the beauty around us each and every day. This musical motive has appeared in many of my pieces, including Song for My Children, which was composed for her and her siblings, and its quiet appreciation for life reminds me of Emily.

Special thanks to my friend and colleague, David Newsam, for providing feedback on this piece, as well as performing the recording found here.