Writing a chamber opera - childrens' opera next?

Born in London, England, where studied piano and vioin before getting a musicology degree. Spent twenty-odd years in New Mexico, teaching, playing and writing music; picked up a Music Ed. degree and a Masters' in keyboard accompaniment. The opportunity to write soundtracks for documentaries made by Navajo film-makers Aaron and Lena Carr, and the chance to try out ideas with children's and community choruses all over the state, led me to a PhD in composition at Stony Brook University. Nearly through - would like to share my time between my two homes, Datil NM and the UK, but will go whereever a job takes me!

I am interested in the interface between the academic and the available - believe community music and music that serves a social purpose is very important, but try to find ways to incorporate the so-called avant-garde into sounds that everyone can respond to. Am presently investigating the possibility for a music program serving Native American youth, as a way of saying "thanks" to the Native families that gave me support and encouragement with my composition.

"For Scott", solo for alto sax commissioned by Scott Litroff
"Dance" for youth orchestra
"On the Subject of Birds" for full orchestra
"It's Spring again, Dammit" for voice and bass
"Foure Harpsichordes Theyre Rompe" for, yes, four harpsichords, commissioned by HsuanWen Chan