The music on this CD has been almost a decade in the making – the works were created from 2001-2009 and represent most of my works for winds and piano to date. During this time I have lived in California and have been inspired by the natural beauties of this state as well as the urban centers and cultural wonders. Songs of California tells the stories of the many places in California that I love and that have inspired me to create this CD. This CD will take you on a journey throughout this land of giant Sequoias, crashing ocean waves, sticky tar pits, city streets, and ponds full of frogs and goldfish. I have tried to capture my view of these wonders through music, and in creating these images I hope to capture the beauty of this diverse landscape and transport you to these worlds that I love so much. I feel that this CD is truly so much of who I am personally as well as musically. A lot can happen over a period of years, and I think this music reflects my journey like many postcards and snapshots of time well spent. Thank you for joining me on this adventure, and I hope you enjoy the journey!