Todd's Piece

If you had not heard, my brother Todd Passed away last December from infections contracted from the floods caused by Hurricane Harvey. We always got along but we had different lives until about 7 years ago when he bought a bicycle. I had done the MS 150 a couple times when he bought his bicycle and we started riding together, eventually riding the MS 150 together. Todd then talked me into doing a triathlon. One thing led to another and we started working out together several times a week. When Todd passed, we all lost a close friend. 

At the end of December, I sent a Facebook message to Brian Balmages- a world-famous composer of band and orchestra music about the possibility of commissioning a piece of music for band. Brian replied to my message with his condolences and asked me to email him after January and we could talk about the commission.

Earlier this month, we learned that the Cy-Fair Symphonic Band- my son Alec plays trombone in this band- has been selected to perform at the Midwest Clinic in Chicago next December. For my non-music education friends, "the Midwest Clinic International Band, Orchestra and Music Conference each year displays top ensembles throughout the music conference to showcase the newest ideas and talent. From students to professionals, performers have a chance to exhibit their talents to a supportive and enthusiastic audience with an interest in furthering music education. " Ensembles from around the world submit recordings and Alec's band was selected to perform. This is a huge honor to be invited. 

If you are still reading this, thank you. Here is what I am asking. I would like to have the work dedicated to Todd commissioned and ready so that my son's band can premier it at Midwest Clinic in December. The cost of the commission would be $9000.00. Please give what you can. I thank you again for your time and consideration.