Program Notes:

Composed for the Atlantic Music Festival Contemporary Ensemble, Gate of Opening was inspired by one of my favorite television shows, Naruto. In the show, there are Eight Inner Gates, the first being The Gate of Opening. This gate allows the user to access 100% of their strength, mastering their own body and mind. Through this piece, I hoped to illustrate the many obstacles an individual must overcome to achieve immense joy, having mastered The Gate of Opening.