Don’t Tread On Me

For string orchestra

Don’t Tread On Me begins in a formal Mozart-ian way, but quickly develops its true rock n’ roll character with bluesy swinging style.  Special feroce string crossings give this piece its insistent, pulsing energy.  The rhythms are straightforward and everything is idiomatic, making this piece sound more difficult to play than it is.  The easy-going American feel of this piece, as well as its short, but sweet length, makes it a nice inclusion on many programs.

duration: 3’30”

(1995)

Don’t Tread On Me is Movement I of the 3-Movement string orchestra piece Signs of Life II, and is also available for string quartet.