Cycles of Convergence

“Cycles of Convergence” was drafted in El Paso, TX, and composed in a single, brief writing session during early March of 2025, somewhere in Northern California. While out on the road playing bass, I knew I was going to have to miss my former mentor Phil Sinder’s retirement celebration at Michigan State University in April. When he asked me to write a piece for the concert, I was honored to be granted a place in the events. I have treasured this opportunity to pay tribute to a man who has had such a great impact on me. “Cycles” is about more than my time at MSU, though it does directly correlate to my own timeline. This piece is, more broadly, a reflection on the many ways in which we develop and maintain bonds within our studios. Every applied instrumental and voice teacher represents a thread which becomes present in every student’s life starting from their very first lesson on campus. We students carry the influence and the traditions of our teachers, passing them down while simultaneously uniting through them. Studying music is a very particular experience in that regard, because one can immediately connect with another who studied with the same teacher. These repetitious moments of convergence upon each other’s lives is made relatable and personal because of that shared piece of identity and experience. It is quite amazing to think that the simple act of creating organized sound brings so many people together. I hope you enjoy the sounds that you make together while performing this piece. Thank you, especially, to Philip Sinder for commissioning this piece and for all of your support. Go Green! -Dr. Z