These little preludes were written in Kansas City, MO from 1998-1999. Although unrelated to one another, these pieces represent the compositional process of "working out" ideas (discoveries), conversations (for Joe), and frustrations (Figaro's Whore). For me, Discoveries is a study in my compositional process where global ideas (shapes) precede local ideas (motivic) at conception. In my mind, this is analogous of a sculptor determining the shape of a sculpture before determining the materials that will be used. For Joe is directly inspired by a series of conversations I had with a very close friend who is also a composer. Although our musical language is completely different, we are generally trying to say the same things. Figaro's Whore is a direct reaction to the frustration of dealing with academic procedures. At times, I feel like I must put things back into perspective for myself. Three Preludes is dedicated to pianist Janet Fetterman.