My connection to Burlington goes back over 35 years to the time when I met my wife Leah. We were both attending Queen’s University at the time, but when we were back at home over the summer breaks, we would spend most of our free time together. This is when I started to learn more about Burlington; specifically, about the Teen Tour Band and the local high schools, because, as I quickly learned, that is one of the first questions Burlingtonians ask each other, “What high school did you go to?”

Skip ahead 10 years, and Leah and I have gotten married and decided to live in Burlington. Since then we have raised two children who are now in their 20s, and spent many hours at music lessons, swimming lessons, Scouts, Student Theatre, Teen Tour Band, and school events. Between us, we have been involved in many aspects of the thriving musical community in Burlington as members of the Top Hat Marching Orchestra, for which I am the Musical Director, the Burlington Concert Band, No Strings Attached, and of course, Bliss.

All of this is to say that my connections to Burlington are many and varied, and I believe that this is the best community to have raised my family.

With this year being the 150th anniversary of the City of Burlington, it seemed obvious that I had to compose a piece to commemorate this special occasion, and the Burlington Symphony Orchestra offered to work with me to realize this goal. The Burlington Overture is not only celebratory, but also incorporates some of my connections to the city. You will hear references to the marching bands, as well as lyrical phrases that reflect on the natural beauty that not only surrounds our city, but is an integral part of Burlington’s many festivals and celebrations.

I hope you enjoy the overture as much as I have enjoyed becoming part of this great city.