Echoes from Mojave Selected as a Finalist for The American Prize
Thank you to The American Prize Board for selecting "Echoes from Mojave: Pioneers of the Supersonic Frontier" as a finalist for the 2026 Band/Wind Ensemble Professional Division. Congratulations as well to the many outstanding composers whose works were also selected this year.
Commissioned by California State University Bakersfield and premiered in 2024 under the direction of Leo Sakomoto, the work explores the historic Bell X-1 project and the engineers and pilots who helped break the sound barrier over the Mojave Desert.
As someone who has long been fascinated by Aeronautics and American History, it was especially meaningful to write a piece that honors the remarkable history right here in Kern County. Seeing the work recognized in this way is deeply rewarding.
If you would like to learn more about the Bell X-1 project and the inspiration behind the piece, please follow the link below.