Mini-Variations on Amazing Grace

"Mini Variations on Amazing Grace” came into existence as a result of a phone call from David Hickman in 1987, asking me to write a piece for the Summit Brass. Rather than something loud or fast, he wanted a piece that was more reflective, "along the lines of an Irish Folksong." The next day the melody Amazing Grace was running through my head. I knew then that I had my piece: a theme followed by four variations. This version for Wind Ensemble is dedicated to Dennis Johnson and the Murray State Wind Ensemble, who premiered the work.