One of my favorite roles in my position at Concordia Conservatory is to compose new works for student ensembles. Often these ensembles are made up of students of varying ages and abilities, and it has been gratifying to observe the more experienced students inspiring the younger ones, and the younger students bringing out the best in the older ones. Copycats was composed for such an ensemble of guitarists: Of the four parts, Guitar 1 & 2 are intended for the more experienced players, and Guitar 3 & 4 can be played by younger students. In this arrangement, performers of different ages and abilities can learn, play and grow together, with imitation, independence, and solidarity.

Commissioned by Concordia Conservatory for its student performers