PROGRAM NOTE

This piece has been on quite a journey since its inception. The work was originally the last movement of “Get into the NOW”, a string quartet commissioned by the Grammy-nominated PUBLIQuartet in 2017. The first large ensemble version was for the Nu Deco Ensemble (a Rock Orchestra in Miami), followed by a full orchestra version that toured nationally for Carnegie Hall’s Link Up program. However, my inner band-geek self is the most excited about this version – which I feel unleashes all the sonic power I ever wanted this music to have.

In “Go BIG or Go HOME”, you will find hints of funk, bluegrass, and Latin while driven by groove, virtuosity, and moments of improvisation allowing members of the group to put their own personal signature on the piece. Most importantly, it is written from a place of self-realization, empowerment, and celebration of how joyous life can be.