Testimonials & Press

[Derek’s music] is energetic, adventurous, and singular in its ability to energize both audience and performer […] pushing technical boundaries, but remaining idiomatic.

— John-Morgan Bush
Hornist & Educator

Derek is a one-of-a-kind composer. Their music is at once melodically beautiful and harmonically sophisticated with deep intelligence and clarity. From vocal works to a horn concerto to an impressive large-scale mass — their scores deserve to be heard and performed widely, and often.

— James Barry,
Composer & Artistic Administrator

Derek has the rare gift of transmitting pure vibration through [music]. They are in essence a clear channel for the healing powers of music. Derek is also a composer/musician who is in tune with the pulse of the times. Highly intuitive and technically skilled, they possess the ability to touch the hearts of those that are lucky to hear their music!

— Meg Ruby,
The Heart of Sound

It was a wonderful experience to collaborate with Derek on their work for my band, [tailoring] the piece to [my students’] strengths. They sought feedback and was responsive to any questions or concerns. I would highly recommend Derek to any ensemble looking commission a work.

— Scott Morrill,
Conductor & Educator

Derek’s works are a joy to experience. Performing their music is exciting, refreshing and natural, eschewing staid tropes without leaving the performer feeling like they are out on a ledge. Derek’s music is able to connect with a wide variety of audiences. Music lovers of all walks of life would do well to become familiar with their work.

— Chris Jackson,
Music Educator

It was a huge pleasure and honor to work with Derek on my piece. They were patient, understanding, and helped bring the music to a level I never imagined possible. Their conducting was clear and the way they ran rehearsal was effective and considerate. Looking forward to being able to work with Derek again!

— Michael Fleming,
Composer