Fair Winds and Following Seas

This piece was commissioned as a surprise gift to honor Debra Richtmeyer at her retirement

ceremony. While in discussion with her former students Erik Elmgren and Nicki Roman, I learned that she is

looking forward to sailing in her retirement, hence the title. The phrase “Fair Winds and Following Seas” has unclear

origins and it is really two separate phrases that eventually ended up together. The Dictionary of American Regional

English states that “Fair Wind” means “safe journey” or “good fortune.” “Following Seas,” is defined in Bowditch’s

America Practical Navigator to mean “A sea in which the waves move in the general direction of the heading.” It is a

saying that wishes good fortune to the sailor on their way. This piece is based on a simple melody and travels through

reflection, turmoil, and ultimately celebration. The piece meditates on the profound and lasting impact Debra’s

extraordinary musicianship has had on her legion of incredible students and symbolizes her carving out a path in a

male-dominated field. Having worked with Debra on my concerto several years ago, I know how important clear

musical ideas are to her as an artist. I created this piece as a lucid expression and employed; a simSple ABA form, the

use of clear a