Broccoli Tree (2022-2023)

A dramatic miniature for solo singer, SSA or TTB ensemble, and accompaniment. The libretto was written by Ashley DeGraaff and consists of three parts: “The Roots and the Trunk” (chant and fughetta), “The Broccoli Leaves,” and “Epilogue” (chant). Broccoli Tree can be performed digitally where the solo singer is also their own small vocal ensemble and the piece can be transposed upon request to suit the needs of the singer. This work was premiered on August 6, 2023, by Brooke Beck (soprano), Ryan Closs (cello and sound design), and Ashley DeGraaff (tech) with the composer at the piano.

Sample of the fughetta in Part I: “The Roots and the Trunk”