2/10/11 – The Performance (Austin Jaquith)

As we had anticipated, the performance tonight was a significant improvement over the readings. Many of the difficult passages were smoother, and executed with greater confidence. Although it was not surprising, it was striking. The audience seemed appreciative, and the composers were all happy with the performance. I can’t speak for the other composers, but I was exhausted afterwards. Listening to a performance of your own work is very draining, even though you are not participating in an active way. It is one of the oddities of being a composer! Despite being a bit worn down, the experience was inspiring, and very satisfying