Concerto for Bassoon and Symphonic Wind Ensemble

This concerto explores one survivor's emotional journey through the grief process. After the loss of a loved one, many people experience a common set of emotions, albeit not in any predictable progression. Psychologists list Denial, Anger, Bargaining, Depression, Acceptance, and Hope as common. The bassoon soloist represents a survivor, and although not strictly programmatic, the three movements represent the survivor's progress from initial notification to a successful adaptation to a "new normal" of life with acceptance and hope. The piece is challenging but approachable for both soloist and the band, and is both moving and uplifting for the audience.