Lament for Solo Tuba and Piano (2007) ~ 2.5 Minutes

Premiered in January 2011 by Dr. Rachel Matz.

The saying ‘It is always darkest before the dawn’ is the inspiration for this piece. The piece begins with the soloist playing the slow, sorrowful melody as the piano pans a heavy chord progression. This progression is the basis of the theme and variations that follow. As the piece develops, the soloist and the accompaniment try to escape the distress and grief. Just as it seems there is no end to the suffering, the soloist pushes through the busy accompaniment and breaks free from the chains of its depression. The opening melody is now played in a major key in the instrument's upper register, showing that a silver lining has been found, hope prevails, and a new day has risen.