Signs of Life is in two movements: a lush Arioso (6') and a jazzy Scherzo (6') using many exotic string sounds including the composer's innovative "peckzicatto" technique. Signs of Life II adds an Allegro first movement (3'30") to create a three-movement work. Signs of Life is recorded by the Alabama Symphony. The first movement (Don't Tread) is recorded separately by the Colorado Symphony string ensemble. The complete work and various movements have had hundreds of performances in the U.S. and Europe.

"the rare ability to entice listeners without writing down to them . . . deftly scored . . . invigorating and deserving of repeated hearings"
Detroit Free Press

"Filled with all manner of string techniques applied in imaginative ways, the piece is so engaging as to make one wish to hear it again, and soon."
Los Angeles Times

"an inventive piece of music"
Salt Lake Tribune

"fresh, accessible, well-written music"
Grand Rapids Press

"the kind of music that could actually make symphony orchestras a vital and integral part of contemporary American culture"
San Antonio Express-News


total duration: 15'30"

(1983/1986)

full symphony strings or reduced to minimum of 3,3,2,2,1