Lilac Jubilee (2012) for orchestra was commissioned by the Rochester Philharmonic Youth Orchestra in honor of David Harman’s 20th anniversary as music director.

This is music of festive celebration: simple and direct; happy, yet heartfelt. The piece is built from three related ideas: 1) a series of moving chords over a throbbing pedal; 2) a bouncy, energetic theme in triple meter; 3) a warm chorale. The title comes from Rochester’s city flower, symbolizing joy and love.