Composition Components
Plagues of Egypt - Excerpt
As the son of a preacher, I grew up hearing and learning about the mystic and powerful stories of the bible. The story of the ten plagues of Egypt was one particular story that created compelling imagery.
NIGHTFALL (…while you were dreaming..)
Art songs have long been an interest of mine. The vocal works of Maurice Ravel, Richard Strauss and Arnold Schoenberg have always seem to ignite my passion for composing music
CARO MIO BEN
An arrangement of this classic aria from the 24 Italian Art songs collection.
DEAD FIRES
These words were written in 1922 at a time when African American were making progress in a severely hostile American society.
GENERATIONS
My patriarchal heritage shows three generations of preachers. My great grand father, Bishop Henry C. Brooks, who began preaching in 1925, my grandfather, Bishop Charles W. Hairston in 1947 and my father Bishop Carlos O. Simon, Sr. in 1994. I chose to use audio clips from past sermons after discovering old LP and several old cassette tapes of sermons from my great grandfather and grandfather.
Tales: a folklore symphony for orchestra
This piece explores African American folklore as well as Afrofuturists stories. This work is commissioned by the Sphinx Organization for its 25th Anniversary and the University of Michigan Symphony Orchestra.
move it
The pandemic of COVID-19 has continued to influence my social, professional and personal life in ways that I never imagined.
loop
The pandemic of COVID-19 has continued to influence my social, professional and personal life in ways that I never imagined.
WARMTH FROM OTHER SUNS
Between 1916 and 1970, the mass exodus of African-Americans leaving the rural South, seeking homes in the urban West, Midwest, and Northeast became known as the Great Migration.
JOURNEY
Journey is inspired by the following poem: Life is a Journey From once proximal end to other.
stir crazy
Commissioned by the Gabriela Lena Frank Music Academy in response to the COVID 19 pandemic.
NIGHT TRIP
The uncles arrive in Chicago after dark at their sister’s apartment to pick up their niece Conchetta. Big city music. Conchetta is thrilled to go “home” to see her relatives—her grandmother, her aunts, her “play aunts.” She sings about the rough world of the big city and longs for the small town life in Tennessee.
FATE NOW CONQUERS
This piece was inspired by a journal entry from Ludvig van Beethoven’s notebook written in 1815: “Iliad. The Twenty-Second Book But Fate now conquers; I am hers; and yet not she shall share In my renown; that life is left to every noble spirit And that some great deed shall beget that all lives shall inherit.”
AMEN! (2017 rev. 2019)
This piece pays homage to my family's four generational affiliation with the Pentecostal church. My intent is to re-create the musical experience of an African American Pentecostal church service that I enjoyed being apart of while growing up in this denomination.
Between Worlds
Bill Traylor was born a slave in Alabama in 1853 and died in 1949. He lived long enough to see the United States of America go through many social and political changes. He was an eyewitness to the Civil War, Emancipation, Reconstruction, Jim Crow segregation and the Great Migration.
SWEET CHARIOT
Swing Low, Sweet Chariot is perhaps one of the most well known African American spirituals. As beautiful and rapturing as its melody is, it should be.
DEAD FIRES
These words were written in 1922 at a time when African American were making progress in a severely hostile American society.
THIS LAND
This piece is inspired by Emma Lazarus’ gentle, welcoming words in her poem, “New Colossus”. Lush, bright harmonies in the strings are used to represent hope and unity.
THE BLOCK
“The Block” is a short orchestral study based on the late visual art of Romare Bearden. Most of Bearden’s work reflects African-American culture in urban cities as well as the rural American south.
Written in Stone
Orchestral
The theme that he and his librettist have chosen — acceptance of same-sex marriage within the black church — is a challenging one.
Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood (Cover)- Paula Champion
Solo Works
"The second is equally important: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' No other commandment is greater than these." Mark 12:31 NLT
Let America Be America Again- Tony Arnold and Third Angle Quartet
Choral
Let America be America again.
Feelings About Baltimore
Chamber Music
These are my feelings on the crimes of BOTH the oppressor and the oppressed in Baltimore and throughout the country.
Emma's Dreams
Film
Score for the First Runner Up for the Marvin Hamlisch Film Scoring Contest
Plagues of Egypt - Excerpt
Orchestral
As the son of a preacher, I grew up hearing and learning about the mystic and powerful stories of the bible. The story of the ten plagues of Egypt was one particular story that created compelling imagery.
NIGHTFALL (…while you were dreaming..)
Solo Voice
Art songs have long been an interest of mine. The vocal works of Maurice Ravel, Richard Strauss and Arnold Schoenberg have always seem to ignite my passion for composing music
CARO MIO BEN
Solo Voice
An arrangement of this classic aria from the 24 Italian Art songs collection.
DEAD FIRES
Solo Voice
These words were written in 1922 at a time when African American were making progress in a severely hostile American society.
GENERATIONS
Electronic
My patriarchal heritage shows three generations of preachers. My great grand father, Bishop Henry C. Brooks, who began preaching in 1925, my grandfather, Bishop Charles W. Hairston in 1947 and my father Bishop Carlos O. Simon, Sr. in 1994. I chose to use audio clips from past sermons after discovering old LP and several old cassette tapes of sermons from my great grandfather and grandfather.
SANCTUS
Choral
An original composition using the Sanctus from the Latin Mass.
NIGHT TRIP
Opera
The uncles arrive in Chicago after dark at their sister’s apartment to pick up their niece Conchetta. Big city music. Conchetta is thrilled to go “home” to see her relatives—her grandmother, her aunts, her “play aunts.” She sings about the rough world of the big city and longs for the small town life in Tennessee.
Between Worlds
Solo Works
Bill Traylor was born a slave in Alabama in 1853 and died in 1949. He lived long enough to see the United States of America go through many social and political changes. He was an eyewitness to the Civil War, Emancipation, Reconstruction, Jim Crow segregation and the Great Migration.
move it
Solo Works
The pandemic of COVID-19 has continued to influence my social, professional and personal life in ways that I never imagined.
LICKETY SPLIT
Small Ensemble
As young boy, I worked with my grandfather during the summers paving driveways in Rocky Mount, Virginia. He was a task master. Things had to be done the right way and with haste when he asked for it in his own playful way.
JOURNEY
Small Ensemble
Journey is inspired by the following poem: Life is a Journey From once proximal end to other.
ELEGY: A CRY FROM THE GRAVE
Small Ensemble
This piece is an artistic reflection dedicated to those who have been murdered wrongfully by an oppressive power; namely Trayvon Martin, Eric Garner and Michael Brown.
CATCH ON FIRE
Small Ensemble
As the son of a Pentecostal preacher, no other memory stands out more than being a part of a “tarrying service”. The “tarry service”, usually on Friday nights, was for those members (mostly teenagers) who had not received the gift of the Holy Spirit.
be still and know
Small Ensemble
This piece was inspired by an interview with Oprah Winfrey
stir crazy
Small Ensemble
Commissioned by the Gabriela Lena Frank Music Academy in response to the COVID 19 pandemic.
WARMTH FROM OTHER SUNS
Small Ensemble
Between 1916 and 1970, the mass exodus of African-Americans leaving the rural South, seeking homes in the urban West, Midwest, and Northeast became known as the Great Migration.
loop
Small Ensemble
The pandemic of COVID-19 has continued to influence my social, professional and personal life in ways that I never imagined.
THE BLOCK
Large Ensemble
“The Block” is a short orchestral study based on the late visual art of Romare Bearden. Most of Bearden’s work reflects African-American culture in urban cities as well as the rural American south.
PORTRAIT OF A QUEEN
Large Ensemble
This piece traces the evolution of black people in America through the lens of the black woman.
SWEET CHARIOT
Large Ensemble
Swing Low, Sweet Chariot is perhaps one of the most well known African American spirituals. As beautiful and rapturing as its melody is, it should be.
THIS LAND
Large Ensemble
This piece is inspired by Emma Lazarus’ gentle, welcoming words in her poem, “New Colossus”. Lush, bright harmonies in the strings are used to represent hope and unity.
AMEN! (2017)
Large Ensemble
My intent is to re-create the musical experience of an African American Pentecostal church service that I enjoyed being apart of while growing up in this denomination.
AMEN! (2017 rev. 2019)
Large Ensemble
This piece pays homage to my family's four generational affiliation with the Pentecostal church. My intent is to re-create the musical experience of an African American Pentecostal church service that I enjoyed being apart of while growing up in this denomination.
FATE NOW CONQUERS
Large Ensemble
This piece was inspired by a journal entry from Ludvig van Beethoven’s notebook written in 1815: “Iliad. The Twenty-Second Book But Fate now conquers; I am hers; and yet not she shall share In my renown; that life is left to every noble spirit And that some great deed shall beget that all lives shall inherit.”
Tales: a folklore symphony for orchestra
Large Ensemble
This piece explores African American folklore as well as Afrofuturists stories. This work is commissioned by the Sphinx Organization for its 25th Anniversary and the University of Michigan Symphony Orchestra.
ASCAP presents Songwriters: The Next Generation - Millennium Stage (April 10, 2019)
Film
Emmas Dreams - Marvin Hamlisch Film Scoring Contest
Film
Marvin Hamlisch Film Scoring Contest WINNER
GENERATIONS
Electronic
My patriarchal heritage shows three generations of preachers. My great grand father, Bishop Henry C. Brooks, who began preaching in 1925, my grandfather, Bishop Charles W. Hairston in 1947 and my father Bishop Carlos O. Simon, Sr. in 1994. I chose to use audio clips from past sermons after discovering old LP and several old cassette tapes of sermons from my great grandfather and grandfather.
NIGHT TRIP
Opera
The uncles arrive in Chicago after dark at their sister’s apartment to pick up their niece Conchetta. Big city music. Conchetta is thrilled to go “home” to see her relatives—her grandmother, her aunts, her “play aunts.” She sings about the rough world of the big city and longs for the small town life in Tennessee.
Between Worlds
Solo Works
Bill Traylor was born a slave in Alabama in 1853 and died in 1949. He lived long enough to see the United States of America go through many social and political changes. He was an eyewitness to the Civil War, Emancipation, Reconstruction, Jim Crow segregation and the Great Migration.
CATCH ON FIRE
Small Ensemble
As the son of a Pentecostal preacher, no other memory stands out more than being a part of a “tarrying service”. The “tarry service”, usually on Friday nights, was for those members (mostly teenagers) who had not received the gift of the Holy Spirit.
AMEN! (2017 rev. 2019)
Large Ensemble
This piece pays homage to my family's four generational affiliation with the Pentecostal church. My intent is to re-create the musical experience of an African American Pentecostal church service that I enjoyed being apart of while growing up in this denomination.
FATE NOW CONQUERS
Large Ensemble
This piece was inspired by a journal entry from Ludvig van Beethoven’s notebook written in 1815: “Iliad. The Twenty-Second Book But Fate now conquers; I am hers; and yet not she shall share In my renown; that life is left to every noble spirit And that some great deed shall beget that all lives shall inherit.”
GENERATIONS
Electronic
My patriarchal heritage shows three generations of preachers. My great grand father, Bishop Henry C. Brooks, who began preaching in 1925, my grandfather, Bishop Charles W. Hairston in 1947 and my father Bishop Carlos O. Simon, Sr. in 1994. I chose to use audio clips from past sermons after discovering old LP and several old cassette tapes of sermons from my great grandfather and grandfather.
NIGHT TRIP
Opera
The uncles arrive in Chicago after dark at their sister’s apartment to pick up their niece Conchetta. Big city music. Conchetta is thrilled to go “home” to see her relatives—her grandmother, her aunts, her “play aunts.” She sings about the rough world of the big city and longs for the small town life in Tennessee.
Between Worlds
Solo Works
Bill Traylor was born a slave in Alabama in 1853 and died in 1949. He lived long enough to see the United States of America go through many social and political changes. He was an eyewitness to the Civil War, Emancipation, Reconstruction, Jim Crow segregation and the Great Migration.
CATCH ON FIRE
Small Ensemble
As the son of a Pentecostal preacher, no other memory stands out more than being a part of a “tarrying service”. The “tarry service”, usually on Friday nights, was for those members (mostly teenagers) who had not received the gift of the Holy Spirit.
AMEN! (2017 rev. 2019)
Large Ensemble
This piece pays homage to my family's four generational affiliation with the Pentecostal church. My intent is to re-create the musical experience of an African American Pentecostal church service that I enjoyed being apart of while growing up in this denomination.
FATE NOW CONQUERS
Large Ensemble
This piece was inspired by a journal entry from Ludvig van Beethoven’s notebook written in 1815: “Iliad. The Twenty-Second Book But Fate now conquers; I am hers; and yet not she shall share In my renown; that life is left to every noble spirit And that some great deed shall beget that all lives shall inherit.”
Written in Stone
The theme that he and his librettist have chosen — acceptance of same-sex marriage within the black church — is a challenging one.
2016
Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood (Cover)- Paula Champion
"The second is equally important: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' No other commandment is greater than these." Mark 12:31 NLT
2019
Let America Be America Again- Tony Arnold and Third Angle Quartet
Let America be America again.
2015
Feelings About Baltimore
These are my feelings on the crimes of BOTH the oppressor and the oppressed in Baltimore and throughout the country.
2016
Emma's Dreams
Score for the First Runner Up for the Marvin Hamlisch Film Scoring Contest
2016
Plagues of Egypt - Excerpt
As the son of a preacher, I grew up hearing and learning about the mystic and powerful stories of the bible. The story of the ten plagues of Egypt was one particular story that created compelling imagery.
2014
NIGHTFALL (…while you were dreaming..)
Art songs have long been an interest of mine. The vocal works of Maurice Ravel, Richard Strauss and Arnold Schoenberg have always seem to ignite my passion for composing music
2019
CARO MIO BEN
An arrangement of this classic aria from the 24 Italian Art songs collection.
2019
DEAD FIRES
These words were written in 1922 at a time when African American were making progress in a severely hostile American society.
2015
GENERATIONS
My patriarchal heritage shows three generations of preachers. My great grand father, Bishop Henry C. Brooks, who began preaching in 1925, my grandfather, Bishop Charles W. Hairston in 1947 and my father Bishop Carlos O. Simon, Sr. in 1994. I chose to use audio clips from past sermons after discovering old LP and several old cassette tapes of sermons from my great grandfather and grandfather.
2008
SANCTUS
An original composition using the Sanctus from the Latin Mass.
2020
NIGHT TRIP
The uncles arrive in Chicago after dark at their sister’s apartment to pick up their niece Conchetta. Big city music. Conchetta is thrilled to go “home” to see her relatives—her grandmother, her aunts, her “play aunts.” She sings about the rough world of the big city and longs for the small town life in Tennessee.
2019
Between Worlds
Bill Traylor was born a slave in Alabama in 1853 and died in 1949. He lived long enough to see the United States of America go through many social and political changes. He was an eyewitness to the Civil War, Emancipation, Reconstruction, Jim Crow segregation and the Great Migration.
2020
move it
The pandemic of COVID-19 has continued to influence my social, professional and personal life in ways that I never imagined.
2015
LICKETY SPLIT
As young boy, I worked with my grandfather during the summers paving driveways in Rocky Mount, Virginia. He was a task master. Things had to be done the right way and with haste when he asked for it in his own playful way.
2020
JOURNEY
Journey is inspired by the following poem: Life is a Journey From once proximal end to other.
2015
ELEGY: A CRY FROM THE GRAVE
This piece is an artistic reflection dedicated to those who have been murdered wrongfully by an oppressive power; namely Trayvon Martin, Eric Garner and Michael Brown.
CATCH ON FIRE
As the son of a Pentecostal preacher, no other memory stands out more than being a part of a “tarrying service”. The “tarry service”, usually on Friday nights, was for those members (mostly teenagers) who had not received the gift of the Holy Spirit.
2015
be still and know
This piece was inspired by an interview with Oprah Winfrey
2020
stir crazy
Commissioned by the Gabriela Lena Frank Music Academy in response to the COVID 19 pandemic.
2020
WARMTH FROM OTHER SUNS
Between 1916 and 1970, the mass exodus of African-Americans leaving the rural South, seeking homes in the urban West, Midwest, and Northeast became known as the Great Migration.
2020
loop
The pandemic of COVID-19 has continued to influence my social, professional and personal life in ways that I never imagined.
2018
THE BLOCK
“The Block” is a short orchestral study based on the late visual art of Romare Bearden. Most of Bearden’s work reflects African-American culture in urban cities as well as the rural American south.
2017
PORTRAIT OF A QUEEN
This piece traces the evolution of black people in America through the lens of the black woman.
2019
SWEET CHARIOT
Swing Low, Sweet Chariot is perhaps one of the most well known African American spirituals. As beautiful and rapturing as its melody is, it should be.
2019
THIS LAND
This piece is inspired by Emma Lazarus’ gentle, welcoming words in her poem, “New Colossus”. Lush, bright harmonies in the strings are used to represent hope and unity.
2017
AMEN! (2017)
My intent is to re-create the musical experience of an African American Pentecostal church service that I enjoyed being apart of while growing up in this denomination.
2019
AMEN! (2017 rev. 2019)
This piece pays homage to my family's four generational affiliation with the Pentecostal church. My intent is to re-create the musical experience of an African American Pentecostal church service that I enjoyed being apart of while growing up in this denomination.
2020
FATE NOW CONQUERS
This piece was inspired by a journal entry from Ludvig van Beethoven’s notebook written in 1815: “Iliad. The Twenty-Second Book But Fate now conquers; I am hers; and yet not she shall share In my renown; that life is left to every noble spirit And that some great deed shall beget that all lives shall inherit.”
2021
Tales: a folklore symphony for orchestra
This piece explores African American folklore as well as Afrofuturists stories. This work is commissioned by the Sphinx Organization for its 25th Anniversary and the University of Michigan Symphony Orchestra.
Emmas Dreams - Marvin Hamlisch Film Scoring Contest
Marvin Hamlisch Film Scoring Contest WINNER
Written in Stone
Orchestral
The theme that he and his librettist have chosen — acceptance of same-sex marriage within the black church — is a challenging one.
Sleep Well
Solo Voice
Psalm 15
Choral
My Everything
Choral
Prayer and Solitude
Choral
A Wonderful Hearing
Choral
Rainy Season
Electronic
White Only. Colored Only
Chamber Music
where two or three are gathered
Chamber Music
Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood (Cover)- Paula Champion
Solo Works
"The second is equally important: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' No other commandment is greater than these." Mark 12:31 NLT
Let America Be America Again- Tony Arnold and Third Angle Quartet
Choral
Let America be America again.
the rain that falls
Electronic
the wind that blows
Electronic
Feelings About Baltimore
Chamber Music
These are my feelings on the crimes of BOTH the oppressor and the oppressed in Baltimore and throughout the country.
Leah's Fugue
Film
Purpose
Electronic
Eastern Moaning
Electronic
Film Cue with Middle Eastern influence.
Sailing Through Space
Film
Out Of Love
Film
Emma's Dreams
Film
Score for the First Runner Up for the Marvin Hamlisch Film Scoring Contest
A Hopeless Romantic
Film
Space and Time
Film
Who Among Us?
Film
Funky Money
Film
Feeling 70's Funky...
Memories Of Summer
Film
A mellow jazz composition...
And They Lynched Him on a Tree
Film
Celestial Heavens
Film
Fighting Kahl
Film
Fun at the Carnival
Film
Dark Washington
Film
Sweet Hour of Prayer
Film Cues
Hymn Arrangement of Sweet Hour of Prayer
Plagues of Egypt - Excerpt
Orchestral
As the son of a preacher, I grew up hearing and learning about the mystic and powerful stories of the bible. The story of the ten plagues of Egypt was one particular story that created compelling imagery.
NIGHTFALL (…while you were dreaming..)
Solo Voice
Art songs have long been an interest of mine. The vocal works of Maurice Ravel, Richard Strauss and Arnold Schoenberg have always seem to ignite my passion for composing music
A PRAYER
Solo Voice
text by Langston Hughes
CARO MIO BEN
Solo Voice
An arrangement of this classic aria from the 24 Italian Art songs collection.
DEAD FIRES
Solo Voice
These words were written in 1922 at a time when African American were making progress in a severely hostile American society.
Great Is Thy Faithfulness
Film Cues
Amazing Grace
Film Cues
Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah
Film Cues
Born For This
Film Cues
AS FREE
Electronic
ELEMENTS
Electronic
GENERATIONS
Electronic
My patriarchal heritage shows three generations of preachers. My great grand father, Bishop Henry C. Brooks, who began preaching in 1925, my grandfather, Bishop Charles W. Hairston in 1947 and my father Bishop Carlos O. Simon, Sr. in 1994. I chose to use audio clips from past sermons after discovering old LP and several old cassette tapes of sermons from my great grandfather and grandfather.
UNITY
Choral
TRAIN'S A'COMIN
Choral
A LIGHT
Choral
SANCTUS
Choral
An original composition using the Sanctus from the Latin Mass.
HE IS
Choral
NIGHT TRIP
Opera
The uncles arrive in Chicago after dark at their sister’s apartment to pick up their niece Conchetta. Big city music. Conchetta is thrilled to go “home” to see her relatives—her grandmother, her aunts, her “play aunts.” She sings about the rough world of the big city and longs for the small town life in Tennessee.
Between Worlds
Solo Works
Bill Traylor was born a slave in Alabama in 1853 and died in 1949. He lived long enough to see the United States of America go through many social and political changes. He was an eyewitness to the Civil War, Emancipation, Reconstruction, Jim Crow segregation and the Great Migration.
move it
Solo Works
The pandemic of COVID-19 has continued to influence my social, professional and personal life in ways that I never imagined.
LICKETY SPLIT
Small Ensemble
As young boy, I worked with my grandfather during the summers paving driveways in Rocky Mount, Virginia. He was a task master. Things had to be done the right way and with haste when he asked for it in his own playful way.
JOURNEY
Small Ensemble
Journey is inspired by the following poem: Life is a Journey From once proximal end to other.
ELEGY: A CRY FROM THE GRAVE
Small Ensemble
This piece is an artistic reflection dedicated to those who have been murdered wrongfully by an oppressive power; namely Trayvon Martin, Eric Garner and Michael Brown.
CATCH ON FIRE
Small Ensemble
As the son of a Pentecostal preacher, no other memory stands out more than being a part of a “tarrying service”. The “tarry service”, usually on Friday nights, was for those members (mostly teenagers) who had not received the gift of the Holy Spirit.
be still and know
Small Ensemble
This piece was inspired by an interview with Oprah Winfrey
stir crazy
Small Ensemble
Commissioned by the Gabriela Lena Frank Music Academy in response to the COVID 19 pandemic.
WARMTH FROM OTHER SUNS
Small Ensemble
Between 1916 and 1970, the mass exodus of African-Americans leaving the rural South, seeking homes in the urban West, Midwest, and Northeast became known as the Great Migration.
loop
Small Ensemble
The pandemic of COVID-19 has continued to influence my social, professional and personal life in ways that I never imagined.
THE BLOCK
Large Ensemble
“The Block” is a short orchestral study based on the late visual art of Romare Bearden. Most of Bearden’s work reflects African-American culture in urban cities as well as the rural American south.
PORTRAIT OF A QUEEN
Large Ensemble
This piece traces the evolution of black people in America through the lens of the black woman.
SWEET CHARIOT
Large Ensemble
Swing Low, Sweet Chariot is perhaps one of the most well known African American spirituals. As beautiful and rapturing as its melody is, it should be.
THIS LAND
Large Ensemble
This piece is inspired by Emma Lazarus’ gentle, welcoming words in her poem, “New Colossus”. Lush, bright harmonies in the strings are used to represent hope and unity.
AMEN! (2017)
Large Ensemble
My intent is to re-create the musical experience of an African American Pentecostal church service that I enjoyed being apart of while growing up in this denomination.
AMEN! (2017 rev. 2019)
Large Ensemble
This piece pays homage to my family's four generational affiliation with the Pentecostal church. My intent is to re-create the musical experience of an African American Pentecostal church service that I enjoyed being apart of while growing up in this denomination.
FATE NOW CONQUERS
Large Ensemble
This piece was inspired by a journal entry from Ludvig van Beethoven’s notebook written in 1815: “Iliad. The Twenty-Second Book But Fate now conquers; I am hers; and yet not she shall share In my renown; that life is left to every noble spirit And that some great deed shall beget that all lives shall inherit.”
Tales: a folklore symphony for orchestra
Large Ensemble
This piece explores African American folklore as well as Afrofuturists stories. This work is commissioned by the Sphinx Organization for its 25th Anniversary and the University of Michigan Symphony Orchestra.
Wish I Didn't Miss You - Angie Stone Live In Warsaw
Film
Riding the Danube
Film
Film Demo
Film
Selflection
Film
ASCAP presents Songwriters: The Next Generation - Millennium Stage (April 10, 2019)
Film
Bruce Almighty Film Demo
Film
Irreplaceables (documentary)
Film
Emmas Dreams - Marvin Hamlisch Film Scoring Contest
Film
Marvin Hamlisch Film Scoring Contest WINNER
Bruce Almighty
Film
Born For This Conducting
Film
2015
GENERATIONS
My patriarchal heritage shows three generations of preachers. My great grand father, Bishop Henry C. Brooks, who began preaching in 1925, my grandfather, Bishop Charles W. Hairston in 1947 and my father Bishop Carlos O. Simon, Sr. in 1994. I chose to use audio clips from past sermons after discovering old LP and several old cassette tapes of sermons from my great grandfather and grandfather.
2020
NIGHT TRIP
The uncles arrive in Chicago after dark at their sister’s apartment to pick up their niece Conchetta. Big city music. Conchetta is thrilled to go “home” to see her relatives—her grandmother, her aunts, her “play aunts.” She sings about the rough world of the big city and longs for the small town life in Tennessee.
2019
Between Worlds
Bill Traylor was born a slave in Alabama in 1853 and died in 1949. He lived long enough to see the United States of America go through many social and political changes. He was an eyewitness to the Civil War, Emancipation, Reconstruction, Jim Crow segregation and the Great Migration.
CATCH ON FIRE
As the son of a Pentecostal preacher, no other memory stands out more than being a part of a “tarrying service”. The “tarry service”, usually on Friday nights, was for those members (mostly teenagers) who had not received the gift of the Holy Spirit.
2019
AMEN! (2017 rev. 2019)
This piece pays homage to my family's four generational affiliation with the Pentecostal church. My intent is to re-create the musical experience of an African American Pentecostal church service that I enjoyed being apart of while growing up in this denomination.
2020
FATE NOW CONQUERS
This piece was inspired by a journal entry from Ludvig van Beethoven’s notebook written in 1815: “Iliad. The Twenty-Second Book But Fate now conquers; I am hers; and yet not she shall share In my renown; that life is left to every noble spirit And that some great deed shall beget that all lives shall inherit.”
CATCH ON FIRE
As the son of a Pentecostal preacher, no other memory stands out more than being a part of a “tarrying service”. The “tarry service”, usually on Friday nights, was for those members (mostly teenagers) who had not received the gift of the Holy Spirit.
2015
GENERATIONS
My patriarchal heritage shows three generations of preachers. My great grand father, Bishop Henry C. Brooks, who began preaching in 1925, my grandfather, Bishop Charles W. Hairston in 1947 and my father Bishop Carlos O. Simon, Sr. in 1994. I chose to use audio clips from past sermons after discovering old LP and several old cassette tapes of sermons from my great grandfather and grandfather.
2019
AMEN! (2017 rev. 2019)
This piece pays homage to my family's four generational affiliation with the Pentecostal church. My intent is to re-create the musical experience of an African American Pentecostal church service that I enjoyed being apart of while growing up in this denomination.
2019
Between Worlds
Bill Traylor was born a slave in Alabama in 1853 and died in 1949. He lived long enough to see the United States of America go through many social and political changes. He was an eyewitness to the Civil War, Emancipation, Reconstruction, Jim Crow segregation and the Great Migration.
2020
NIGHT TRIP
The uncles arrive in Chicago after dark at their sister’s apartment to pick up their niece Conchetta. Big city music. Conchetta is thrilled to go “home” to see her relatives—her grandmother, her aunts, her “play aunts.” She sings about the rough world of the big city and longs for the small town life in Tennessee.
2020
FATE NOW CONQUERS
This piece was inspired by a journal entry from Ludvig van Beethoven’s notebook written in 1815: “Iliad. The Twenty-Second Book But Fate now conquers; I am hers; and yet not she shall share In my renown; that life is left to every noble spirit And that some great deed shall beget that all lives shall inherit.”
CATCH ON FIRE
As the son of a Pentecostal preacher, no other memory stands out more than being a part of a “tarrying service”. The “tarry service”, usually on Friday nights, was for those members (mostly teenagers) who had not received the gift of the Holy Spirit.
2015
GENERATIONS
My patriarchal heritage shows three generations of preachers. My great grand father, Bishop Henry C. Brooks, who began preaching in 1925, my grandfather, Bishop Charles W. Hairston in 1947 and my father Bishop Carlos O. Simon, Sr. in 1994. I chose to use audio clips from past sermons after discovering old LP and several old cassette tapes of sermons from my great grandfather and grandfather.
2019
AMEN! (2017 rev. 2019)
This piece pays homage to my family's four generational affiliation with the Pentecostal church. My intent is to re-create the musical experience of an African American Pentecostal church service that I enjoyed being apart of while growing up in this denomination.
2019
Between Worlds
Bill Traylor was born a slave in Alabama in 1853 and died in 1949. He lived long enough to see the United States of America go through many social and political changes. He was an eyewitness to the Civil War, Emancipation, Reconstruction, Jim Crow segregation and the Great Migration.
2020
NIGHT TRIP
The uncles arrive in Chicago after dark at their sister’s apartment to pick up their niece Conchetta. Big city music. Conchetta is thrilled to go “home” to see her relatives—her grandmother, her aunts, her “play aunts.” She sings about the rough world of the big city and longs for the small town life in Tennessee.
2020
FATE NOW CONQUERS
This piece was inspired by a journal entry from Ludvig van Beethoven’s notebook written in 1815: “Iliad. The Twenty-Second Book But Fate now conquers; I am hers; and yet not she shall share In my renown; that life is left to every noble spirit And that some great deed shall beget that all lives shall inherit.”
Written in Stone
Orchestral
The theme that he and his librettist have chosen — acceptance of same-sex marriage within the black church — is a challenging one.
see more2016
Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood (Cover)- Paula Champion
Solo Works
"The second is equally important: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' No other commandment is greater than these." Mark 12:31 NLT
see moreQuartet
2019
Let America Be America Again- Tony Arnold and Third Angle Quartet
Choral
Let America be America again.
see morePiano
2015
Feelings About Baltimore
Chamber Music
These are my feelings on the crimes of BOTH the oppressor and the oppressed in Baltimore and throughout the country.
see more2016
Emma's Dreams
Film
Score for the First Runner Up for the Marvin Hamlisch Film Scoring Contest
see more2016
Plagues of Egypt - Excerpt
Orchestral
As the son of a preacher, I grew up hearing and learning about the mystic and powerful stories of the bible. The story of the ten plagues of Egypt was one particular story that created compelling imagery.
see moremedium voice and piano
2014
NIGHTFALL (…while you were dreaming..)
Solo Voice
Art songs have long been an interest of mine. The vocal works of Maurice Ravel, Richard Strauss and Arnold Schoenberg have always seem to ignite my passion for composing music
see morefor baritone and piano
2019
CARO MIO BEN
Solo Voice
An arrangement of this classic aria from the 24 Italian Art songs collection.
see morefor medium voice and piano
2019
DEAD FIRES
Solo Voice
These words were written in 1922 at a time when African American were making progress in a severely hostile American society.
see morecomputer generated sounds
2015
GENERATIONS
Electronic
My patriarchal heritage shows three generations of preachers. My great grand father, Bishop Henry C. Brooks, who began preaching in 1925, my grandfather, Bishop Charles W. Hairston in 1947 and my father Bishop Carlos O. Simon, Sr. in 1994. I chose to use audio clips from past sermons after discovering old LP and several old cassette tapes of sermons from my great grandfather and grandfather.
see moreSATB Chorus and Piano
2008
SANCTUS
Choral
An original composition using the Sanctus from the Latin Mass.
see morechamber opera
2020
NIGHT TRIP
Opera
The uncles arrive in Chicago after dark at their sister’s apartment to pick up their niece Conchetta. Big city music. Conchetta is thrilled to go “home” to see her relatives—her grandmother, her aunts, her “play aunts.” She sings about the rough world of the big city and longs for the small town life in Tennessee.
see morefor solo violin or solo cello or solo double bass
2019
Between Worlds
Solo Works
Bill Traylor was born a slave in Alabama in 1853 and died in 1949. He lived long enough to see the United States of America go through many social and political changes. He was an eyewitness to the Civil War, Emancipation, Reconstruction, Jim Crow segregation and the Great Migration.
see morefor solo flute or alto flute
2020
move it
Solo Works
The pandemic of COVID-19 has continued to influence my social, professional and personal life in ways that I never imagined.
see morecello and piano
2015
LICKETY SPLIT
Small Ensemble
As young boy, I worked with my grandfather during the summers paving driveways in Rocky Mount, Virginia. He was a task master. Things had to be done the right way and with haste when he asked for it in his own playful way.
see morestring orchestra or string quintet
2020
JOURNEY
Small Ensemble
Journey is inspired by the following poem: Life is a Journey From once proximal end to other.
see morestring quartet or string orchestra or saxophone quartet
2015
ELEGY: A CRY FROM THE GRAVE
Small Ensemble
This piece is an artistic reflection dedicated to those who have been murdered wrongfully by an oppressive power; namely Trayvon Martin, Eric Garner and Michael Brown.
see moresaxophone quartet (sop sax/a sax/ten sax/bar sax)
CATCH ON FIRE
Small Ensemble
As the son of a Pentecostal preacher, no other memory stands out more than being a part of a “tarrying service”. The “tarry service”, usually on Friday nights, was for those members (mostly teenagers) who had not received the gift of the Holy Spirit.
see morepiano trio (violin, cello and piano)
2015
be still and know
Small Ensemble
This piece was inspired by an interview with Oprah Winfrey
see moreflute and violin
2020
stir crazy
Small Ensemble
Commissioned by the Gabriela Lena Frank Music Academy in response to the COVID 19 pandemic.
see morestring quartet
2020
WARMTH FROM OTHER SUNS
Small Ensemble
Between 1916 and 1970, the mass exodus of African-Americans leaving the rural South, seeking homes in the urban West, Midwest, and Northeast became known as the Great Migration.
see morestring trio (violin, viola, cello)
2020
loop
Small Ensemble
The pandemic of COVID-19 has continued to influence my social, professional and personal life in ways that I never imagined.
see morefor orchestra
2018
THE BLOCK
Large Ensemble
“The Block” is a short orchestral study based on the late visual art of Romare Bearden. Most of Bearden’s work reflects African-American culture in urban cities as well as the rural American south.
see morefor orchestra and female narrator
2017
PORTRAIT OF A QUEEN
Large Ensemble
This piece traces the evolution of black people in America through the lens of the black woman.
see moreWind Ensemble
2019
SWEET CHARIOT
Large Ensemble
Swing Low, Sweet Chariot is perhaps one of the most well known African American spirituals. As beautiful and rapturing as its melody is, it should be.
see morefor orchestra
2019
THIS LAND
Large Ensemble
This piece is inspired by Emma Lazarus’ gentle, welcoming words in her poem, “New Colossus”. Lush, bright harmonies in the strings are used to represent hope and unity.
see morefor symphony band
2017
AMEN! (2017)
Large Ensemble
My intent is to re-create the musical experience of an African American Pentecostal church service that I enjoyed being apart of while growing up in this denomination.
see morefor orchestra
2019
AMEN! (2017 rev. 2019)
Large Ensemble
This piece pays homage to my family's four generational affiliation with the Pentecostal church. My intent is to re-create the musical experience of an African American Pentecostal church service that I enjoyed being apart of while growing up in this denomination.
see morefor orchestra
2020
FATE NOW CONQUERS
Large Ensemble
This piece was inspired by a journal entry from Ludvig van Beethoven’s notebook written in 1815: “Iliad. The Twenty-Second Book But Fate now conquers; I am hers; and yet not she shall share In my renown; that life is left to every noble spirit And that some great deed shall beget that all lives shall inherit.”
see morefor orchestra
2021
Tales: a folklore symphony for orchestra
Large Ensemble
This piece explores African American folklore as well as Afrofuturists stories. This work is commissioned by the Sphinx Organization for its 25th Anniversary and the University of Michigan Symphony Orchestra.
see moreEmmas Dreams - Marvin Hamlisch Film Scoring Contest
Film
Marvin Hamlisch Film Scoring Contest WINNER
see moreCATCH ON FIRE
Small Ensemble
As the son of a Pentecostal preacher, no other memory stands out more than being a part of a “tarrying service”. The “tarry service”, usually on Friday nights, was for those members (mostly teenagers) who had not received the gift of the Holy Spirit.
Emmas Dreams - Marvin Hamlisch Film Scoring Contest
Film
Marvin Hamlisch Film Scoring Contest WINNER
Written in Stone
Orchestral
The theme that he and his librettist have chosen — acceptance of same-sex marriage within the black church — is a challenging one.
SANCTUS
Choral
An original composition using the Sanctus from the Latin Mass.
NIGHTFALL (…while you were dreaming..)
Solo Voice
Art songs have long been an interest of mine. The vocal works of Maurice Ravel, Richard Strauss and Arnold Schoenberg have always seem to ignite my passion for composing music
ELEGY: A CRY FROM THE GRAVE
Small Ensemble
This piece is an artistic reflection dedicated to those who have been murdered wrongfully by an oppressive power; namely Trayvon Martin, Eric Garner and Michael Brown.
be still and know
Small Ensemble
This piece was inspired by an interview with Oprah Winfrey
Feelings About Baltimore
Chamber Music
These are my feelings on the crimes of BOTH the oppressor and the oppressed in Baltimore and throughout the country.
GENERATIONS
Electronic
My patriarchal heritage shows three generations of preachers. My great grand father, Bishop Henry C. Brooks, who began preaching in 1925, my grandfather, Bishop Charles W. Hairston in 1947 and my father Bishop Carlos O. Simon, Sr. in 1994. I chose to use audio clips from past sermons after discovering old LP and several old cassette tapes of sermons from my great grandfather and grandfather.
LICKETY SPLIT
Small Ensemble
As young boy, I worked with my grandfather during the summers paving driveways in Rocky Mount, Virginia. He was a task master. Things had to be done the right way and with haste when he asked for it in his own playful way.
Plagues of Egypt - Excerpt
Orchestral
As the son of a preacher, I grew up hearing and learning about the mystic and powerful stories of the bible. The story of the ten plagues of Egypt was one particular story that created compelling imagery.
Emma's Dreams
Film
Score for the First Runner Up for the Marvin Hamlisch Film Scoring Contest
Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood (Cover)- Paula Champion
Solo Works
"The second is equally important: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' No other commandment is greater than these." Mark 12:31 NLT
AMEN! (2017)
Large Ensemble
My intent is to re-create the musical experience of an African American Pentecostal church service that I enjoyed being apart of while growing up in this denomination.
PORTRAIT OF A QUEEN
Large Ensemble
This piece traces the evolution of black people in America through the lens of the black woman.
THE BLOCK
Large Ensemble
“The Block” is a short orchestral study based on the late visual art of Romare Bearden. Most of Bearden’s work reflects African-American culture in urban cities as well as the rural American south.
CARO MIO BEN
Solo Voice
An arrangement of this classic aria from the 24 Italian Art songs collection.
AMEN! (2017 rev. 2019)
Large Ensemble
This piece pays homage to my family's four generational affiliation with the Pentecostal church. My intent is to re-create the musical experience of an African American Pentecostal church service that I enjoyed being apart of while growing up in this denomination.
Between Worlds
Solo Works
Bill Traylor was born a slave in Alabama in 1853 and died in 1949. He lived long enough to see the United States of America go through many social and political changes. He was an eyewitness to the Civil War, Emancipation, Reconstruction, Jim Crow segregation and the Great Migration.
SWEET CHARIOT
Large Ensemble
Swing Low, Sweet Chariot is perhaps one of the most well known African American spirituals. As beautiful and rapturing as its melody is, it should be.
DEAD FIRES
Solo Voice
These words were written in 1922 at a time when African American were making progress in a severely hostile American society.
Let America Be America Again- Tony Arnold and Third Angle Quartet
Choral
Let America be America again.
THIS LAND
Large Ensemble
This piece is inspired by Emma Lazarus’ gentle, welcoming words in her poem, “New Colossus”. Lush, bright harmonies in the strings are used to represent hope and unity.
move it
Solo Works
The pandemic of COVID-19 has continued to influence my social, professional and personal life in ways that I never imagined.
loop
Small Ensemble
The pandemic of COVID-19 has continued to influence my social, professional and personal life in ways that I never imagined.
WARMTH FROM OTHER SUNS
Small Ensemble
Between 1916 and 1970, the mass exodus of African-Americans leaving the rural South, seeking homes in the urban West, Midwest, and Northeast became known as the Great Migration.
JOURNEY
Small Ensemble
Journey is inspired by the following poem: Life is a Journey From once proximal end to other.
stir crazy
Small Ensemble
Commissioned by the Gabriela Lena Frank Music Academy in response to the COVID 19 pandemic.
NIGHT TRIP
Opera
The uncles arrive in Chicago after dark at their sister’s apartment to pick up their niece Conchetta. Big city music. Conchetta is thrilled to go “home” to see her relatives—her grandmother, her aunts, her “play aunts.” She sings about the rough world of the big city and longs for the small town life in Tennessee.
FATE NOW CONQUERS
Large Ensemble
This piece was inspired by a journal entry from Ludvig van Beethoven’s notebook written in 1815: “Iliad. The Twenty-Second Book But Fate now conquers; I am hers; and yet not she shall share In my renown; that life is left to every noble spirit And that some great deed shall beget that all lives shall inherit.”
Tales: a folklore symphony for orchestra
Large Ensemble
This piece explores African American folklore as well as Afrofuturists stories. This work is commissioned by the Sphinx Organization for its 25th Anniversary and the University of Michigan Symphony Orchestra.
CATCH ON FIRE
Small Ensemble
As the son of a Pentecostal preacher, no other memory stands out more than being a part of a “tarrying service”. The “tarry service”, usually on Friday nights, was for those members (mostly teenagers) who had not received the gift of the Holy Spirit.
Emmas Dreams - Marvin Hamlisch Film Scoring Contest
Film
Marvin Hamlisch Film Scoring Contest WINNER
Written in Stone
Orchestral
The theme that he and his librettist have chosen — acceptance of same-sex marriage within the black church — is a challenging one.
SANCTUS
Choral
An original composition using the Sanctus from the Latin Mass.
NIGHTFALL (…while you were dreaming..)
Solo Voice
Art songs have long been an interest of mine. The vocal works of Maurice Ravel, Richard Strauss and Arnold Schoenberg have always seem to ignite my passion for composing music
ELEGY: A CRY FROM THE GRAVE
Small Ensemble
This piece is an artistic reflection dedicated to those who have been murdered wrongfully by an oppressive power; namely Trayvon Martin, Eric Garner and Michael Brown.
be still and know
Small Ensemble
This piece was inspired by an interview with Oprah Winfrey
Feelings About Baltimore
Chamber Music
These are my feelings on the crimes of BOTH the oppressor and the oppressed in Baltimore and throughout the country.
GENERATIONS
Electronic
My patriarchal heritage shows three generations of preachers. My great grand father, Bishop Henry C. Brooks, who began preaching in 1925, my grandfather, Bishop Charles W. Hairston in 1947 and my father Bishop Carlos O. Simon, Sr. in 1994. I chose to use audio clips from past sermons after discovering old LP and several old cassette tapes of sermons from my great grandfather and grandfather.
LICKETY SPLIT
Small Ensemble
As young boy, I worked with my grandfather during the summers paving driveways in Rocky Mount, Virginia. He was a task master. Things had to be done the right way and with haste when he asked for it in his own playful way.
Plagues of Egypt - Excerpt
Orchestral
As the son of a preacher, I grew up hearing and learning about the mystic and powerful stories of the bible. The story of the ten plagues of Egypt was one particular story that created compelling imagery.
Emma's Dreams
Film
Score for the First Runner Up for the Marvin Hamlisch Film Scoring Contest
Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood (Cover)- Paula Champion
Solo Works
"The second is equally important: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' No other commandment is greater than these." Mark 12:31 NLT
AMEN! (2017)
Large Ensemble
My intent is to re-create the musical experience of an African American Pentecostal church service that I enjoyed being apart of while growing up in this denomination.
PORTRAIT OF A QUEEN
Large Ensemble
This piece traces the evolution of black people in America through the lens of the black woman.
THE BLOCK
Large Ensemble
“The Block” is a short orchestral study based on the late visual art of Romare Bearden. Most of Bearden’s work reflects African-American culture in urban cities as well as the rural American south.
CARO MIO BEN
Solo Voice
An arrangement of this classic aria from the 24 Italian Art songs collection.
AMEN! (2017 rev. 2019)
Large Ensemble
This piece pays homage to my family's four generational affiliation with the Pentecostal church. My intent is to re-create the musical experience of an African American Pentecostal church service that I enjoyed being apart of while growing up in this denomination.
Between Worlds
Solo Works
Bill Traylor was born a slave in Alabama in 1853 and died in 1949. He lived long enough to see the United States of America go through many social and political changes. He was an eyewitness to the Civil War, Emancipation, Reconstruction, Jim Crow segregation and the Great Migration.
SWEET CHARIOT
Large Ensemble
Swing Low, Sweet Chariot is perhaps one of the most well known African American spirituals. As beautiful and rapturing as its melody is, it should be.
DEAD FIRES
Solo Voice
These words were written in 1922 at a time when African American were making progress in a severely hostile American society.
Let America Be America Again- Tony Arnold and Third Angle Quartet
Choral
Let America be America again.
THIS LAND
Large Ensemble
This piece is inspired by Emma Lazarus’ gentle, welcoming words in her poem, “New Colossus”. Lush, bright harmonies in the strings are used to represent hope and unity.
move it
Solo Works
The pandemic of COVID-19 has continued to influence my social, professional and personal life in ways that I never imagined.
loop
Small Ensemble
The pandemic of COVID-19 has continued to influence my social, professional and personal life in ways that I never imagined.
WARMTH FROM OTHER SUNS
Small Ensemble
Between 1916 and 1970, the mass exodus of African-Americans leaving the rural South, seeking homes in the urban West, Midwest, and Northeast became known as the Great Migration.
JOURNEY
Small Ensemble
Journey is inspired by the following poem: Life is a Journey From once proximal end to other.
stir crazy
Small Ensemble
Commissioned by the Gabriela Lena Frank Music Academy in response to the COVID 19 pandemic.
NIGHT TRIP
Opera
The uncles arrive in Chicago after dark at their sister’s apartment to pick up their niece Conchetta. Big city music. Conchetta is thrilled to go “home” to see her relatives—her grandmother, her aunts, her “play aunts.” She sings about the rough world of the big city and longs for the small town life in Tennessee.
FATE NOW CONQUERS
Large Ensemble
This piece was inspired by a journal entry from Ludvig van Beethoven’s notebook written in 1815: “Iliad. The Twenty-Second Book But Fate now conquers; I am hers; and yet not she shall share In my renown; that life is left to every noble spirit And that some great deed shall beget that all lives shall inherit.”
Tales: a folklore symphony for orchestra
Large Ensemble
This piece explores African American folklore as well as Afrofuturists stories. This work is commissioned by the Sphinx Organization for its 25th Anniversary and the University of Michigan Symphony Orchestra.