PROGRAM NOTE

The Bicycle Ride comes from a very early period, the beginning, in my compositional output and is a work that represents the adventuresome discovery of composing. I envisioned a thrilling bicycle race that would take the rider (listener and performer) through treacherous and exhilarating obstacles and conclude in triumphant victory. The imagery of this bicycle escapade was inescapable and so ingrained in my thoughts that I penned a few lines of poetic verse detailing an imaginary narrative for the piece.

Early dawn, bicycle mounted,
Peak of a hilltop, daybreak.
Sun breaks the horizon,
Down the precipice whipping with incredible speed.

Zigzag turns and roadway obstacles, peril.

Swerving, a new neighborhood,
A Straight and uncomplicated path.

Snap! A great bicycle race!

Behind, all around, competitors

With malicious intent.

PERFORMANCE HISTORY

October 24, 2014: Iowa State University Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Jacob Harrison

July 21, 2005: Honolulu Symphonic Winds, conducted by Henry Miyamura