Frisson [frēˈsôN] (n.) - a sudden strong feeling of excitement or fear; a thrill. (“Oxford Dictionary”)

​

Humans are thrill seekers. We always strive for more and constantly push technology, science, and even our own bodies to their limits. Frisson taps into this human desire for excitement and thrill. When I sat down to write this piece, I wanted to invoke just the right amount of thrill, excitement, and even a little bit of danger; the perfect amount of Frisson. The piece starts with an exuberant fanfare that returns throughout, driving the piece forward. String and wind ostinatos work to give the piece constant movement, like a locomotive barreling toward its destination. As the piece continues, the excitement, as well as the chaos, grows. The piece teeters on the edge of being out of control, as if the train is barreling around a sharp turn. Finally, the piece reaches an explosive ending in which the percussion steals time from under the nose of the conductor, dragging them and the rest of the ensemble along in a frantic, exuberant ending passage. 

   This piece, at its core, is all about taking risks and seeking discomfort. Only once we get out of our comfort zone do we achieve the thrill that is Frisson. For me, writing this piece was a risk. It was one of the biggest projects I have ever undertaken and was filled with highs and lows. However, because I was willing to leave my comfort zone behind and embark on this new musical journey, I was able to create something of which I am truly proud. I hope you, as a performer or an audience member, strive to push the boundaries of what you thought possible for yourself and find Frisson.