Variations on “Doncaster” by S.S. Wesley for concert band. The concert band version was commissioned by Dr. Kendall Prinz. The chamber version was commissioned by Dr. David Amlung for the Centennial Celebration of McMurry University, 2023.

This arrangement was made from the piano version.

This piece was commissioned by Dr. David Amlung and premiered by the ACU wind ensemble, it is part of the Consortium Commissioning Project sponsored by ACU, HSU, McMurry, and Eastern New Mexico University.

Scored for Piccolo, 2 Flutes, 2 Oboes, 3 Bb Clarinets, 1 Bb Bass Clarinet, 2 Eb Alto Saxophones, 1 Bb Tenor Saxophone, 1 Eb Baritone Saxophone, 1 Bassoon, 4 F Horns, 4 Bb Trumpets, 2 Trombones, 1 Bass Trombone, Tuba, Timpani, Snare Drum, Bass Drum, Suspended Cymbals (Gong), Xylophone, Marimba, and Vibraphone.

These pieces were inspired by “Motion Picture Moods for Pianists and Organists”, 1924, by Erno Rapée. This is an anthology of music that was used for cues during the silent film era.

Commissioned by HSU for the First Annual Christmas at HSU Celebration.

These pieces were inspired by “Motion Picture Moods for Pianists and Organists”, 1924, by Erno Rapée. This is an anthology of music that was used for cues during the silent film era.

This symphony is dedicated to the Hardin-Simmons University Concert Band and its conductor, Dr. Wayne Dorothy. It was inspired by important themes that I found in The Silmarillion. It formed the basis of a presentation I gave titled, “From Epic Narrative to Music: Tolkien’s Universe as Inspiration for The First Age of Middle-earth: a Symphony for Concert Band” for the Centre for English, Translation and Anglo-Portuguese Studies for the Worlds made of Heroes Conference “On the 60th anniversary of the publication of J. R. R. Tolkien’s The Fellowship of the Ring”, 6-7 November 2014, Faculdade de Letras da Universidade do Porto.

This set was premiered by the Anson High School Concert Band (Anson, Texas) under the direction of Rob Hartman.

This set was premiered by the Hardin-Simmons University Concert Band under the direction of Dr. Wayne Dorothy.

This work is an arrangement of my “Piano Sonata, no. 1”. I made this arrangement because I believed the material was perfect for concert band. The set is highly evocative of some of the fun things my son did when he was a child.

This piece was commissioned by Chris Mudd, band director of Churchill High School in Eugene, Oregon.

This piece was read by the University of Oregon Wind Ensemble under the direction of Dr. Rob Ponto.

The original version was performed by the Saint Paul High School Marching Band (Santa Fe Springs, California) under the direction of Bernie Scherr.

This piece was commissioned by Duane Weston, former band director of the College of the Sequoias, Visalia, California. Its premiere was conducted by Bernie Scherr.

This piece was performed by the College of the Sequoias Marching Band many years ago under the name of Fanfare and Entry. I’ve changed that name to better reflect what the piece truly is: a stand tune in the style of 70’s pop.

This is a theme and variation on the hymn tune DUNLAPS CREEK. It is appropriate as a brass offertory for which it was written and premiered.

Dedicated to the Key City Brass. Give a listen to Vivaldi’s “Gloria”, Liszt’s “Liebestraum, No. 3”, and Fauré’s “Requiem” and you will understand the titles of the movements.

For two trumpets. Commissioned by Dr. David Amlung for the Centennial Celebration of McMurry University, 2023.

This piece is an arrangement of Fanfare for Six Horns.

Originally for horn quartet.

This piece was commissioned by Dr. David Amlung and premiered by the ACU wind ensemble, it is part of the Consortium Commissioning Project sponsored by ACU, HSU, McMurry, and Eastern New Mexico University. This version is for purchase for those that seek to enter the Consortium.

For the Key City Brass.

This work was commissioned by Jay Lester for the Lone Star State Trumpet Guild for their performance at TMEA in February, 2022.

for brass quartet/quintet (horn/trombone)

Commissioned by and Dedicated to Lawson Hager.

Communion hymn meditation.

Commissioned by and Dedicated to David Amlung in honor of his father

Commissioned by and Dedicated to John E. Kennedy, Professor of Fine Arts, South Plains College, Levelland, Texas

Commissioned by and Dedicated to the Altus Trumpet Ensemble.

For Lawson Hager and the Horn Studio at Hardin-Simmons University.

This piece was commissioned by members of the Lone Star State Trumpet Guild for their upcoming performance at the 2019 TMEA Convention in San Antonio, Texas.

Commissioned by Dr. David Amlung and Dr. Juan Mendoza

This piece evokes images of an ancient battle field, long silent, upon which the echoes of the  combatants still linger.

This piece is dedicated to all of the wonderful musicians that have either recently passed away or are no longer teaching at HSU. The music traces their emotional state of hearing bad news and their struggle with the life decisions that followed this news.

I wrote this piece for myself and the organist at my former parish church. We premiered it at an Easter Vigil service. I also performed it again in Eugene, Oregon. It is rhythmic, tonal, and stately.  

This piece was written for trumpet players in the studio of George Recker, my trumpet professor at the University of Oregon. It was premiered at the School of Music graduation ceremony in 1996.

This piece was premiered in Eugene, Oregon, in 1997.

This piece won the University of Oregon’s 125th Anniversary Composition Commission Competition. 

This work was commissioned by Hardin-Simmons University for the inauguration of its former president, Dr. Craig Turner.

This piece was written for the horn studio of former Dean and Associate Professor of Horn, Lawson Hager, Hardin-Simmons University.

This piece was written for Dr. Mark Wilcox, Assistant Professor of High Brass, McMurry University.

These pieces are published by Cherry Classics and can be purchased at: https://cherryclassics.com/collections/vendors?q=Scherr

This piece was written for the Key City Brass Quintet. 

This piece was commissioned by the late Dr. Mark Wilcox, former Assistant Professor of High Brass, McMurry University.

This piece was written for Dr. Mark Wilcox and Dr. Bernard Scherr.

This piece was written for and premiered by the Key City Brass Quintet.

This piece was a commission by Dr. John Irish, Professor of Trumpet at Angelo State University.

This piece was inspired by the terribly hot summer of 2010. It was composed for and premiered by the Key City Brass Quintet.

This piece is inspired by the beautiful tales found in The Silmarillion, and was composed and premiered by the Key City Brass Quintet.

Commissioned by Dr. Robert Tucker. This piece was inspired by the grey skies that haunted Sam and Frodo as they struggled in their journey towards Mordor.  They were single-minded in their dedicated to completing what seemed and felt like an impossible task. They overcame their fear and constantly moved forward toward their goal, whatever end that would be.

Dedicated to Jesse Ratcliffe, Music Director and Organist, All Saints Episcopal Church, Frederick, Maryland

This is a theme and variation on the hymn tune DUNLAPS CREEK. It is appropriate as a brass offertory for which it was written and premiered.

Dedicated to the Key City Brass. Give a listen to Vivaldi’s “Gloria”, Liszt’s “Liebestraum, No. 3”, and Fauré’s “Requiem” and you will understand the titles of the movements.

For two trumpets. Commissioned by Dr. David Amlung for the Centennial Celebration of McMurry University, 2023.

This piece is dedicated to Alex Carpenter and Bill Harden. It is subtitled “Sketches of Jazz”.

This piece is subtitled “Sketches of Jazz” and is dedicated to my colleagues Alex Carpenter and Bill Harden.

For flute, oboe, clarinet, and bassoon. Based on a newly composed folksong that shares many traits with traditional European folksongs. This piece is also arranged for string quartet.

For the Key City Brass.

This piece expresses all the emotions associated with being restless: anxious, sleepless, concern, and worry.

Variations on “Doncaster” by S.S. Wesley for chamber ensemble. The chamber version was commissioned by Dr. David Amlung for the Centennial Celebration of McMurry University, 2023.

This work was commissioned by Jay Lester for the Lone Star State Trumpet Guild for their performance at TMEA in February, 2022.

Communion hymn meditation.

This piece was commissioned by Dr. David Amlung and premiered by the ACU wind ensemble, it is part of the Consortium Commissioning Project sponsored by ACU, HSU, McMurry, and Eastern New Mexico University. This version is for purchase for those that seek to enter the Consortium.

This piece is commissioned by and dedicated to the Key City Winds. This piece was inspired by the words and sentiments of the “I Have a Dream” speech given by Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr.  May the issue of racial differences never be used to divide America. May the peace of Christ unite us all.

Commissioned by and Dedicated to David Amlung in honor of his father

Commissioned by and Dedicated to John E. Kennedy, Professor of Fine Arts, South Plains College, Levelland, Texas

Commissioned by and Dedicated to the Altus Trumpet Ensemble.

Originally for horn quartet.

Commissioned by and Dedicated to Lawson Hager.

For Lawson Hager and the Horn Studio at Hardin-Simmons University.

For Susie Rockett.

Commissioned by Dr. Janelle Ott, Instructor of Bassoon, HSU.

This piece evokes images of an ancient battle field, long silent, upon which the echoes of the  combatants still linger.

for woodwind quintet, brass quintet, string quartet, piano, percussion, and electronics. The version without electronics can be purchased on the webstore.

Arranged for string quartet, originally for piano.

Please contact Bernard Scherr for score use for performance.

Arranged for string quartet, originally for piano.

Please contact Bernard Scherr for score use for performance.

Commissioned by Dr. David Amlung and Dr. Juan Mendoza

This piece was commissioned by members of the Lone Star State Trumpet Guild for their upcoming performance at the 2019 TMEA Convention in San Antonio, Texas.

For the Key City Winds.

This piece is dedicated to all of the wonderful musicians that have either recently passed away or are no longer teaching at HSU. The music traces their emotional state of hearing bad news and their struggle with the life decisions that followed this news.

This piece was requested by Dr. Charlie Coltman for the Abilene Chamber Players for a special concert featuring Hardin-Simmons University Composers. The concert was in the fall of 2015. I have wanted to compose a piece based on the time Frodo and Sam entered Shelob’s tunnel to their leaving the Tower of Cirith Ungol. I also wanted to work with my colleagues, Steve Neves and Mike Jones, on creating drawings that focused on 10 scenes from this story arc. The performance included a film of their art that was coordinated with the music. Anyone familiar with Tolkien’s masterpiece, The Lord of the Rings, will know that this episode is perhaps the most frightening and perilous part of his epic story. If not for the heroic bravery of Sam, the quest to destroy the Ring would have failed. The music and artwork, in many ways, are in homage to him.

Commissioned by and dedicated to Dr. Karla Ordoñez. This piece was inspired by the tragic memories of the remnant of the Noldor still living in Middle-earth in the Third Age who remember the kin-strife caused by the Oath of Fëanor.

Commissioned by Dr. Robert Tucker. This piece was inspired by the grey skies that haunted Sam and Frodo as they struggled in their journey towards Mordor.  They were single-minded in their dedicated to completing what seemed and felt like an impossible task. They overcame their fear and constantly moved forward toward their goal, whatever end that would be.

This piece is inspired by the beautiful tales found in The Silmarillion, and was composed and premiered by the Key City Brass Quintet.

This piece was inspired by the terribly hot summer of 2010. It was composed for and premiered by the Key City Brass Quintet.

This piece was commissioned by Dr. Kay Williams and Dr. Pauline Bjorem. They were on the piano faculty at Abilene Christian University. This piece contains a number of jazz idioms, such as rag-time rhythms and extended seventh-chords.

This piece was composed as an example to be used in my “Composing with Pro Tools and Reason” class. It’s a funny little tune imitating a live performance. The class and I are both audience and performers.

for brass quartet/quintet (horn/trombone)

This piece was written at the request of my “lunch buddies” for the woodwind faculty at Hardin-Simmons University. 

This piece was a commission by Dr. Lisa McArthur, Professor of Music at Campbellsville University.

This piece was a commission by Dr. John Irish, Professor of Trumpet at Angelo State University.

This piece was commissioned by Keith Lloyd, Instructor of Percussion and Music History, McMurry University.

These pieces are published by Cherry Classics and can be purchased at: https://cherryclassics.com/collections/vendors?q=Scherr

This piece was written for the Key City Brass Quintet. 

This work was inspired by the paintings of Joao de Brito and the brilliant piano playing of Joao Bettencourt da Camara. Senor da Camara has performed these pieces in the US and the UK.

This piece was commissioned by the late Dr. Mark Wilcox, former Assistant Professor of High Brass, McMurry University.

This piece was commissioned by Dr. Charles Coltman, Professor of Woodwinds, Hardin-Simmons University.

This piece was a commission by Dr. Peter Neubert, Visiting Assistant Professor of Viola at Hardin-Simmons University.

This piece was written for Dr. Mark Wilcox and Dr. Bernard Scherr.

This piece was written for and premiered by the Key City Brass Quintet.

This piece was commissioned by Dr. Kristin Isaacson, Assistant Professor of Cello and String Bass, Hardin-Simmons University.

Selections of Music in Colors for piano arranged for string quartet.

This piece was written for Dr. Mark Wilcox, Assistant Professor of High Brass, McMurry University.

These arrangements were made for the celebration of the 50th wedding anniversary of Balzer and Blondina Scherr.

This piece was commissioned by and is dedicated to Dr. Peter Neubert, former Visiting Instructor of Music, Hardin-Simmons University.

This piece was arranged for concert band which was premiered by the Hardin-Simmons University Concert Band under the direction of Dr. Wayne Dorothy.

Morning Whispers was inspired by the Debussy Trio and their readings of student compositions many years ago at the University of Oregon.

This piece was commissioned by Dr. Tido Janssen, former Associate Professor of Cello and String Bass, Hardin-Simmons University.

This piece was commissioned by Dr. Charles Coltman, Professor of Woodwinds, Hardin-Simmons University. This work has also been performed on numerous occasions by Dr. Thomas Josenhans.

This piece is an arrangement of Fanfare for Six Horns.

This piece was commissioned and premiered by the Abilene Chamber Players.

This piece was written for the horn studio of former Dean and Associate Professor of Horn, Lawson Hager, Hardin-Simmons University.

This work was commissioned by Hardin-Simmons University for the inauguration of its former president, Dr. Craig Turner.

This piece won the University of Oregon’s 125th Anniversary Composition Commission Competition. 

This piece was an assignment for my doctorate exams in composition. I enjoyed the result so much that I have added it to my oeuvre. It is a fun setting of an old English folksong.

This piece was premiered in Eugene, Oregon, in 1997.

This piece is dedicated to all those that pray the Divine Office.

This piece was premiered in Eugene, Oregon, in 1997. It had its Texas premiere Abilene in 2012.

This piece is a tribute to Gustav Mahler, one of my compositional heroes.

This piece cleverly combines quartal and quintal elements in a serial manner. It is arranged for the following groups:

Oboe, clarinet, bassoon

Oboe, clarinet, bass clarinet

Soprano sax, alto sax, tenor sax

2 violins and cello

This piece was written for trumpet players in the studio of George Recker, my trumpet professor at the University of Oregon. It was premiered at the School of Music graduation ceremony in 1996.

This piece was premiered in Eugene, Oregon, in January of 1996.

These preludes are based on the plainchants listed below. Preludes 11 and 12 were commissioned by Dr. David Eaton, former Assistant Professor of Organ, Hardin-Simmons University. The complete collection is published by Zimbel Press: http://store.subitomusic.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=2616

This work was inspired by my son when he was a toddler. It was also inspired by my love of the music of Ravel. It has a number of impressionist strands and requires virtuosic skill to perform it satisfactorily. It was premiered in Eugene, Oregon.

This piece was premiered in Eugene, Oregon. It is tonal, lyrical, and quite expressive.

The opening of this piece was written during a faculty meeting in which my mind was starting to drift. It is energetic, tonal, and, perhaps, a bit too Bach-like; but, I keep it in my oeuvre because it is so much fun. It awaits its premiere.

I wrote this piece for myself and the organist at my former parish church. We premiered it at an Easter Vigil service. I also performed it again in Eugene, Oregon. It is rhythmic, tonal, and stately.  

Like the name implies, a song for solo instrument and piano in the style of the Romantic era. It is one of the earliest complete pieces I have ever written.

This set of six songs was commissioned by Dr. Chris Hollingsworth, Director of Opera, Hardin-Simmons University. He wanted a set of songs based on the Song of Songs from the Old Testament that he and his wife, Rosie, could sing together. His only requirement was that the set include the verse: “Place me as a seal over your heart”. I developed a narrative from various parts of the book and then formed coherent lyrics from this narrative. There are a number of instances in which the text is quite intimate; but, this is wholly appropriate given that this performers are married and in love!

These were commissioned by Dr. Lynnette Chambers, Professor of Voice at Hardin-Simmons University, and Dr. Kecia Ashford, former Associate Professor of Voice at Hardin-Simmons University. The set has been performed on numerous occasions by Dr. Chambers and Dr. Melody Rich, Assistant Professor of Voice, Hardin-Simmons University. 

This set was commissioned by Dr. Jayne Middleton, Professor of Voice at Hardin-Simmons University.

These songs were premiered in two different locations by Lorri Frogget and Sandy Holder. Three songs were premiered in Washington, and three were premiered in Oregon.

This piece was premiered at Hardin-Simmons University.

This piece was commissioned by Beth and Joel Nunes on the occasion of their wedding.

For SATB chorus and trombone choir. This piece was commissioned by Dr. Clell Wright, the DCA at Valdosta State University. The text of this work is from the Cantigas de Santa Maria (no. 10), compiled during the reign of Alfonso X, King of Castile and Leon (1221-1284). It is in Galician-Portuguese, the language of romance and song during the 13th-century of Portugal and north-west Spain. The selection of the text is in celebration of the cultural heritage of the region through which his ensembles will be travelling during VSU’s spring 2024 tour of Spain and Portugal. The piece will be available for purchase after their tour; but, please listen to the midi version below.

For SATB chorus and trombone choir. This piece was commissioned by Dr. Clell Wright, the DCA at Valdosta State University. The text of this work is from the Cantigas de Santa Maria (no. 40), compiled during the reign of Alfonso X, King of Castile and Leon (1221-1284). It is in Galician-Portuguese, the language of romance and song during the 13th-century of Portugal and north-west Spain. The selection of the text is in celebration of the cultural heritage of the region through which his ensembles will be travelling during VSU’s spring 2024 tour of Spain and Portugal. The piece will be available for purchase after their tour; but, please listen to the midi version below.

Text Jeremiah 29:11-4, adapted by Bernie Scherr

This piece was commissioned by Trina Fink in honor of her father, T.W. Dean, whose choral arrangement I preserved and expanded in this orchestration.  The instrumentation is that of FBC Abilene, Texas.

This piece was commissioned by Trina Fink in honor of her father, T.W. Dean, whose choral arrangement I preserved and expanded in this orchestration.  The instrumentation is that of FBC Abilene, Texas.

Commissioned by Dr. Clell Wright, Director, Abilene Chamber Singers.

This piece was commissioned by Trina Fink in honor of her father, T.W. Dean, whose choral arrangement I preserved and expanded in this orchestration.  The instrumentation is that of FBC Abilene, Texas.

This piece was commissioned by Trina Fink in honor of her father, T.W. Dean, whose choral arrangement I preserved and expanded in this orchestration.  The instrumentation is that of FBC Abilene, Texas.

Commissioned by Dr. Clell Wright, Director, Abilene Chamber Singers.

Commissioned by the Abilene Classical Chorus.

Commissioned by the Abilene Classical Chorus.

These Portuguese folksong settings were commissioned and performed by Dr. Clell Wright, Director of Choral Activities at Hardin-Simmons University. Recordings of these folksong texts by a native continental Portuguese speaker are available for download. Please use the “Contact” page to receive a link for downloading these recordings. The link will be made available to those that have purchased the piece. 

This piece was commissioned by the Episcopal Church of the Heavenly Rest in Abilene, Texas, in honor of the retirement of Conrad Bratton, their long-time music director.

This set began as a single-movement commission from Dr. Loyd Hawthorne, former director of the Hardin-Simmons University Concert Choir. A few years after The Gloria was premiered (the original title was “Today a Savior is Born”), Dr. Clell Wright, the new director of the same group commissioned a second, single-movement piece, The Annunciation. Following its premiere, I decided to complete the set on the biblical infancy narratives of Jesus. These pieces vividly evoke the Gospel scenes. There is a piano reduction of the orchestra part for conventional choral performances.

The Gloria was originally commissioned by Dr. Lloyd Hawthorne, but the remaining pieces were composed for the HSU concert Choir directed by Dr. Clell Wright.

“The Gloria” is now a movement of “Scenes from the Nativity.” This piece was commissioned by Dr. Loyd Hawthorne, former conductor of the Hardin-Simmons University Concert Choir.

This piece was recognized in the Waging Peace through Singing Project in Oregon. 

This piece was commissioned by St. Thomas More Newman Center in Eugene, Oregon. It is appropriate as a liturgical hymn.

This piece was commissioned by Dennis Davenport, former director of the Adult Choir, St. Mary’s Episcopal Church in Eugene, Oregon.

Several of these pieces were premiered by the University of Oregon Chamber Choir. Several others saw their premiere by the Hardin-Simmons University Concert Choir.

This piece was premiered by the University of Oregon Chamber Choir under the direction of Kathryn Olson. The text was written by the composer.

Below is the text of this piece. As you can read, it is a compilation of the writings of Saint Paul and the Nicene Creed. There are repetitions of certain works or phrases in this setting, and the stanza breaks align with the musical sections.

He is risen, He is Christ, our King.

He is risen, He is Lord and Savior.

Now one in union with the Father,

He is the Light of the world.

He suffered, died, and was buried.

The pain He endured to remove our sins for our salvation.

He is salvation for mankind, mankind is saved.

He suffered, died, and was buried, on the third day He arose, and saved.

For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.

We are justified by His grace as a gift through His redemption which is in Christ Jesus.

We have been crucified by Christ,

and it is no longer we who live, but Christ lives within us;

and the life that we live, we live by faith in the Son of God,

who loved us and delivered Himself up for us.

Christ was raised from the dead through the Glory of the Father,

so we too might walk in newness of life.

Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God,

and that believing you may have life in His name.

He is risen, He is Christ our, King.

Jesus Christ is our Lord now and forever.

Dedicated to Jesse Ratcliffe, Music Director and Organist, All Saints Episcopal Church, Frederick, Maryland

This piece expresses all the emotions associated with being restless: anxious, sleepless, concern, and worry.

This work was inspired by my son when he was a toddler. It was also inspired by my love of the music of Ravel. It has a number of impressionist strands and requires virtuosic skill to perform it satisfactorily. It was premiered in Eugene, Oregon.

These preludes are based on the plainchants listed below. Preludes 11 and 12 were commissioned by Dr. David Eaton, former Assistant Professor of Organ, Hardin-Simmons University. The complete collection is published by Zimbel Press: http://store.subitomusic.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=2616

This piece was commissioned by Dr. Tido Janssen, former Associate Professor of Cello and String Bass, Hardin-Simmons University.

This piece was arranged for concert band which was premiered by the Hardin-Simmons University Concert Band under the direction of Dr. Wayne Dorothy.

These arrangements were made for the celebration of the 50th wedding anniversary of Balzer and Blondina Scherr.

This work was inspired by the paintings of Joao de Brito and the brilliant piano playing of Joao Bettencourt da Camara. Senor da Camara has performed these pieces in the US and the UK.

This piece was commissioned by Dr. Kay Williams and Dr. Pauline Bjorem. They were on the piano faculty at Abilene Christian University. This piece contains a number of jazz idioms, such as rag-time rhythms and extended seventh-chords.

For those that suffer blasphemous indignities as they follow the Lord’s commands written in the Gospel of Matthew, Chapter 5, verses 38-40 and 44-46.

Arranged for string orchestra from the original piano score.

Arranged for string orchestra from the original piano scores.

2222 4331 timp., perc., strings

2222 4331 timpani, perc., strings

for piccolo, 2 flutes, 2 oboes, 2 Bb clarinets, Bb bass clarinet, bassoon, 4 F horns, 3 C trumpets, 2 trombones, bass trombone, tuba, timpani, snare drum, bass drum, cymbals, tam-tam, xylophone, glockenspiel, strings.

This piece was written for my former colleagues and myself. The work is dedicated to those of us who taught in the arts in the academy, especially in music, and were labelled “deadwood,” cut from the academic tree, and discarded.

This work is based on a single theme, but approached from two different perspectives.

This piece was commissioned by Trina Fink in honor of her father, T.W. Dean, whose choral arrangement I preserved and expanded in this orchestration.  The instrumentation is that of FBC Abilene, Texas.

This piece was commissioned by Trina Fink in honor of her father, T.W. Dean, whose choral arrangement I preserved and expanded in this orchestration.  The instrumentation is that of FBC Abilene, Texas.

This piece was commissioned by Trina Fink in honor of her father, T.W. Dean, whose choral arrangement I preserved and expanded in this orchestration.  The instrumentation is that of FBC Abilene, Texas.

This piece was commissioned by Trina Fink in honor of her father, T.W. Dean, whose choral arrangement I preserved and expanded in this orchestration.  The instrumentation is that of FBC Abilene, Texas.

This work was commissioned by Hardin-Simmons University for the inauguration of its president, Dr. Lanny Hall. It is tonally accessible and engagingly rhythmic with mixed-meter passages. It is a refrain-verse design and would work well in a liturgical setting. The saxophone parts are optional and were included in the original score because members of both the concert band and orchestra were part of the premiere performance.  The recording on this website is a NotePerformer realization.

This piece was begun in 1986 but not completed until 2009. It reflects my early compositional style which was quite tonal. The piece is a tone poem about my childhood experiences of going to the county fair. Its themes evoke images of my favorite animals, rides, games, and foods. It is dedicated to the Tulare County Fair (California). The piece was premiered by the Hardin-Simmons University Orchestra under the direction of Bernie Scherr.

This set began as a single-movement commission from Dr. Loyd Hawthorne, former director of the Hardin-Simmons University Concert Choir. A few years after The Gloria was premiered (the original title was “Today a Savior is Born”), Dr. Clell Wright, the new director of the same group commissioned a second, single-movement piece, The Annunciation. Following its premiere, I decided to complete the set on the biblical infancy narratives of Jesus. These pieces vividly evoke the Gospel scenes. There is a piano reduction of the orchestra part for conventional choral performances.

This piece was commissioned by Dr. David Andre, former conductor of the Tulare County Symphony. It was premiered in 2006. It is a homage to the great organ literature of the 18th century. The titles indicate the contrapuntal nature of the work and also suggest its tonal harmony.

This piece is dedicated to João Bettencourt da Câmara, a young Portuguese pianist of rising international fame. The piece is highly rhythmic and contrapuntal. The outer, fast movements are energetic and lyrical; but, the slow, second movement is somewhat dark and foreboding because it was inspired by the anguish I saw in the lives of our dear friends as they suffered a terrible and tragic loss.

This piece was premiered by the Hardin-Simmons University Orchestra under the direction of Bernie Scherr. It is dedicated to Peter Isaacson, former director of the HSU Orchestra.

Though completely based on octatonic scales, the listener will readily detect a number of jazz influences. I wrote this piece for “fun” and it awaits its premiere.

Based on the hymn tune of the same name from the Sacred Harp. This piece was premiered by the Hardin-Simmons University Orchestra under the direction of Dr. Peter Isaacson.

The text is based on a compilation of psalm verses that are organized into a single, new psalm. This piece was read by the University of Oregon Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Bernie Scherr.

The text adapted from the poem of the same name by Wilfred Owen.

The text is by Wilfred Owen. This piece was read by the University of Oregon Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Dr. Wayne Bennett. This piece was formerly known as “Death or Arms” with text from a different poet.

The ideal setting for the set is to be performed in a large church. The orchestra would be at the altar area and a choir would be at a distance, perhaps in the choir loft or in the transepts. The choir would sing the chant first and the orchestra would respond. Victimae Paschali Laudes, Ubi Caritas, and Veni Creator Spiritus have been performed, but the set as a whole awaits its premiere.

This piece is dedicated to my wife, Donna. The origional version was premiered by the UCLA Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Bernie Scherr. The revised version was premiered by the Abilene Collegiate Orchestra under the direction of Bernie Scherr.

This piece is one of my earliest that I include in my oeuvre. It is a tone poem that chronicles my grandfather’s journey from the Azores to America. The original version was premiered by the UCLA Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Bernie Scherr and was later performed by the Tulare County Symphony under the direction of Dr. David Andre. The revised version awaits its premiere.

The text is by Wilfred Owen. This piece was read by the University of Oregon Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Dr. Wayne Bennett. This piece was formerly known as “Death or Arms” with text from a different poet.

The text adapted from the poem of the same name by Wilfred Owen.

Though completely based on octatonic scales, the listener will readily detect a number of jazz influences. I wrote this piece for “fun” and it awaits its premiere.

This piece is dedicated to João Bettencourt da Câmara, a young Portuguese pianist of rising international fame. The piece is highly rhythmic and contrapuntal. The outer, fast movements are energetic and lyrical; but, the slow, second movement is somewhat dark and foreboding because it was inspired by the anguish I saw in the lives of our dear friends as they suffered a terrible and tragic loss.

This piece was commissioned by Dr. David Andre, former conductor of the Tulare County Symphony. It was premiered in 2006. It is a homage to the great organ literature of the 18th century. The titles indicate the contrapuntal nature of the work and also suggest its tonal harmony.

This piece is dedicated to Alex Carpenter and Bill Harden. It is subtitled “Sketches of Jazz”.

Selections of Music in Colors for piano arranged for string quartet.

Arranged for string quartet, originally for piano.

Please contact Bernard Scherr for score use for performance.

Arranged for string quartet, originally for piano.

Please contact Bernard Scherr for score use for performance.

The opening of this piece was written during a faculty meeting in which my mind was starting to drift. It is energetic, tonal, and, perhaps, a bit too Bach-like; but, I keep it in my oeuvre because it is so much fun. It awaits its premiere.

This piece was premiered in Eugene, Oregon. It is tonal, lyrical, and quite expressive.

This piece was premiered in Eugene, Oregon, in January of 1996.

This piece is a tribute to Gustav Mahler, one of my compositional heroes.

This piece cleverly combines quartal and quintal elements in a serial manner. It is arranged for the following groups:

Oboe, clarinet, bassoon

Oboe, clarinet, bass clarinet

Soprano sax, alto sax, tenor sax

2 violins and cello

This piece is dedicated to all those that pray the Divine Office.

This piece was commissioned and premiered by the Abilene Chamber Players.

This piece was commissioned by Dr. Tido Janssen, former Associate Professor of Cello and String Bass, Hardin-Simmons University.

Morning Whispers was inspired by the Debussy Trio and their readings of student compositions many years ago at the University of Oregon.

This piece was commissioned by and is dedicated to Dr. Peter Neubert, former Visiting Instructor of Music, Hardin-Simmons University.

This piece was commissioned by Dr. Kristin Isaacson, Assistant Professor of Cello and String Bass, Hardin-Simmons University.

This piece was a commission by Dr. Peter Neubert, Visiting Assistant Professor of Viola at Hardin-Simmons University.

This piece is subtitled “Sketches of Jazz” and is dedicated to my colleagues Alex Carpenter and Bill Harden.

For flute, oboe, clarinet, and bassoon. Based on a newly composed folksong that shares many traits with traditional European folksongs. This piece is also arranged for string quartet.

This piece is commissioned by and dedicated to the Key City Winds. This piece was inspired by the words and sentiments of the “I Have a Dream” speech given by Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr.  May the issue of racial differences never be used to divide America. May the peace of Christ unite us all.

For Susie Rockett.

Commissioned by Dr. Janelle Ott, Instructor of Bassoon, HSU.

For the Key City Winds.

This piece was premiered in Eugene, Oregon, in January of 1996.

This piece is a tribute to Gustav Mahler, one of my compositional heroes.

This piece cleverly combines quartal and quintal elements in a serial manner. It is arranged for the following groups:

Oboe, clarinet, bassoon

Oboe, clarinet, bass clarinet

Soprano sax, alto sax, tenor sax

2 violins and cello

This piece was premiered in Eugene, Oregon, in 1997. It had its Texas premiere Abilene in 2012.

This piece was an assignment for my doctorate exams in composition. I enjoyed the result so much that I have added it to my oeuvre. It is a fun setting of an old English folksong.

This piece was commissioned and premiered by the Abilene Chamber Players.

This piece was commissioned by Dr. Charles Coltman, Professor of Woodwinds, Hardin-Simmons University. This work has also been performed on numerous occasions by Dr. Thomas Josenhans.

Morning Whispers was inspired by the Debussy Trio and their readings of student compositions many years ago at the University of Oregon.

This piece was commissioned by Dr. Charles Coltman, Professor of Woodwinds, Hardin-Simmons University.

This piece was a commission by Dr. Lisa McArthur, Professor of Music at Campbellsville University.

This piece was written at the request of my “lunch buddies” for the woodwind faculty at Hardin-Simmons University. 

Commissioned by and dedicated to Dr. Karla Ordoñez. This piece was inspired by the tragic memories of the remnant of the Noldor still living in Middle-earth in the Third Age who remember the kin-strife caused by the Oath of Fëanor.