Barbarossa is inspired by the make-believe adventures of my oldest daughter. During the early stages of the global COVID-19 pandemic, she and I spent many hours in our backyard courageously battling hordes of “bad guys and tigers” on our pretend pirate ship. The title comes from the name of the famous corsair Heyreddin Barbarossa (known for his red beard) who later became the admiral of the Ottoman Navy leading the Ottoman empire to naval dominance in the 16th century. Barbarossa is an intermediate level piece for 11 players that introduces multiple extended performance techniques and will develop a strong sense of 12/8 time in the performers.

Published by C. Alan Publications.

Performed at the 2022 Midwest Clinic by the Allen High School Percussion Ensemble under the direction of Miles Locke.

Performed at the 2025 Midwest Clinic by the Trinity High School Percussion Ensemble under the direction of Manny Flores.