Ole Schmidt is best known throughtout the world as a conductor, but he is also a highly talented and productive composer who has worked in nearly every idiom and genre. This piece is typical of his expressive qualities and demonstrates that while his music is often eclectic, sometimes experimental, he forms a basis in the Neoclassical tradition. It is his leaning toward driving rhythm and jazz-inspired harmony that makes his music compelling and attractive to listen to.

• Toccata