Journey Above the Tundra

"Journey Above the Tundra: Dance of the Willow Ptarmigan" was inspired by a life-changing expedition to Lake Clark National Park as part of the 2023 Composing in the Wilderness program. Immersed in Alaska’s pristine landscape, I struggled at first to compose something “light, humorous, or playful” in such a grand and spiritual setting—until a snowy willow ptarmigan appeared, clucking boldly from a nearby tree. That unexpected moment of levity became the key. This piece captures the playful spirit of that ptarmigan, portrayed by the bassoon, and the vibrant, intertwining voices of Alaskan birds dancing above the tundra.

"Journey Above the Tundra: Dance of the Willow Ptarmigan" was inspired by a life-changing expedition to Lake Clark National Park as part of the 2023 Composing in the Wilderness program. Immersed in Alaska’s pristine landscape, I struggled at first to compose something “light, humorous, or playful” in such a grand and spiritual setting—until a snowy willow ptarmigan appeared, clucking boldly from a nearby tree. That unexpected moment of levity became the key. This piece captures the playful spirit of that ptarmigan, portrayed by the bassoon, and the vibrant, intertwining voices of Alaskan birds dancing above the tundra.