ClarinetFest 2024

The Distance Between Us (2024)

8’30

This piece was written for the E.P.I.C. Duo, which consists of Dr. Victoria Deutsch and Dr. Francisco Javier de Alba. “The Distance Between Us” centers on the theme that friendships, relationships, and community are stronger than the “distance” between us. This “distance” can be physical, or it can be differing opinions and ideas that potentially separate us. However, the bonds we make with others help create a space to have difficult conversations through understanding and compassion. The piece incorporates audio and visual components that provide an immersive experience for the audience.

“The Distance Between Us” is divided into four continuous movements. The first movement, titled “Alone,” draws on the ideas and emotions of isolation, loneliness, and not having a community. The piece then transitions into the second movement, “Connection,” which has a more uplifting feel. I try to capture the feeling of finding community and building bonds of friendship. However, the third movement, “Distance,” completely destroys this by showing how easily these bonds can be broken. The last movement, “Togetherness,” is an attempt to repair the destruction that intolerance, bigotry, and hate caused in the previous movement. The piece ends exactly like the opening as a warning that if we don’t put our differences, egos, pride, etc. aside, we will only find ourselves alone. It is up to all of us to close the distance between us in order to move forward in a positive and productive way.

I. Alone

II. Connection

III. Distance

IV. Togetherness