Rodeo (2024)
Technical Information:
Piano Trio
Duration: 11'
Commissioned by Menil Trio
Premiered and recorded in Houston, December 7, 2024
Program Note:
When the Menil Trio approached me about commissioning a piece, I was absolutely thrilled. Over the past several years in Houston, I've had the privilege of hearing these three wonderful musicians frequently, and I've come to know them both personally and musically. It's always a treat to compose for people I understand so well musically, and I was beyond excited when we landed on the idea of crafting a composition inspired by the Houston Rodeo.
Living in Houston for several years now, one of my favorite local events has undoubtedly been the Rodeo. It's Houston's pride and joy, an absolute whirlwind of fun—I've even taken to calling it the Gesamtkunstwerk of fun, and it truly lives up to the title. The Houston Rodeo offers everything one could imagine and more. From an endless array of fried foods, sweet treats, and barbecue to Agventure, where one can witness the miracle of birth with live hatching chicks and newborn animals, including opportunities to pet bunnies, it's a sensory overload. Then there's the excitement of the livestock show—cowboys riding bulls, cowgirls barrel racing, and the heartwarming chaos of events like the calf scramble and Mutton Bustin', where little kids bravely attempt to ride sheep, often with comical results. And let's not forget the colossal Carnival with its rides and attractions. Truly, the Houston Rodeo is an absolute blast.
I wanted to compose a piece that captured the spirit of these events and activities. The work is divided into seven sections, each titled—I. Rodeo, II. Agventure, III. Saddle Bronc, IV. Barrel Racing, V. Calf Scramble, VI. Mutton Bustin', and VII. Y'all Come Back and See Us!
Experiencing this Gesamtkunstwerk firsthand is a must. The piece reflects my excitement and perhaps even my obsession with the event, and I'm grateful to the Menil Trio for giving me the opportunity to compose for them on one of my favorite occasions of the year.