Stumbling Forward
Bass Clarinet and Piano
ca. 5'
Rhythmic drive, expressive melodic lines, and an exciting finish make this an accessible showcase for the bass clarinet's versatility and character.
(Invoices/ Quotes/ P.O.s accepted)
With purchase you’ll receive:
- your name listed in the music as a Founding Player
- instant delivery of the PDF on release day: June 24, 2026
Thanks for being part of the piece from the very beginning.
At a Glance
Style
Groovy • Gritty • Expressive
Selected Performances & Recognition
New Release
Performances updated soon.
What Makes It Unique
A shorter and more accessible companion work, the piece balances lyrical playing, rhythmic drive, and musical storytelling without sacrificing musical depth.
Musical Influences
Eighth Blackbird
Nico Muhly
Andy Akiho
Post-Minimalism
Why I Wrote This Piece
Written to expand serious recital repertoire for the bass clarinet through a shorter, more accessible work that remains musically substantial.
Program Note
Stumbling Forward is a new bass clarinet + piano work following the response to There and Back, my bass clarinet piece that has since been performed in concert halls and at conferences around the world. Where There and Back takes a broader and more involved journey, Stumbling Forward is shorter, punchier, and built for immediate energy.
The piece begins with an awkward stumbling gesture that lands heavily in the piano’s low register before launching into a fast-moving mix of groove, singing melodies, uneven meters, and simple glissandi in the the altissimo register. After a brief expressive turn in the middle, the music regains its momentum and drives toward an exciting, high-energy conclusion.
At around 5 minutes, Stumbling Forward is designed as a vivid, rewarding concert work that is easier to fit on a program while still giving the bass clarinetist plenty of personality, motion, and flair.
I’m opening a small Founding Players group for those who’d like to support Stumbling Forward early.
For $75, you’ll receive:
- your name listed in the music as a Founding Player
- instant delivery of the PDF on release day: June 24, 2026
Thanks for being part of the piece from the very beginning.
Questions about the piece?
Feel free to reach out if there's anything I can do to help as you explore this piece.
