Stars – for Brass Band & B♭ Soloist

Stars is one of the most personal pieces I have ever written.

It was written for my son, Sam, who passed away at just 20 months old. Eleven years on, he is still a part of everything I do, and this music is my way of holding onto him—of saying the things words never quite can.

There’s no grand story behind this piece. It comes from a very real place. Grief, love, memory… and the quiet moments in between. The solo line is meant to feel like a voice—fragile at times, searching, but always full of love.

The title comes from a proverb that stayed with me:

“Perhaps they are not stars in the sky, but rather openings where our loved ones shine down to let us know they are happy.”

I’m not selling this piece. It didn’t feel right to put a price on something like this. So Stars is free—for anyone who wants to play it or share it

If you do perform it, I hope it gives you and your audience a moment to reflect… and maybe to remember someone of your own.