This piece was written in honor of Enrique "Kiki" Camarena. He worked for the United States Drug Enforcement Administration in the 1980's. Assigned to Guadalajara, Mexico, he was kidnapped, tortured, and murdered by members of a Mexican Drug cartel in February 1985.  I found his story to be compelling at the time. When my thoughts again returned to this tragic episode I decided to write. I hope you enjoy it.

Kiki

Fedelm is a female prophet and seeress from Irish mythology. Epic stories of the times of the Druids have her predicting the outcome of a significant battle during the Gallic Wars. She was envisioned as a young woman with yellow hair wearing a speckled cloak. As a Goddess she was worshiped by the Druids, often in the form of dance.

Dance For Fedelm

'Parting', released on October 1, is all about what the title says. Most people might think it refers to a romantic situation which is only partly accurate. 'Parting' was meant to conjure any interaction that signals loss. Saying, "Goodbye" to a loved pet or moving away from one's home town. I could have titled it 'Leaving' but that's not global enough. The melancholy tone balanced with the orchestration can be both soothing and relaxing.

'Parting' has a cinematic feel but it is structured in a repeated ABA form with a key change. It was written for full orchestra with no effects; it is acoustic. I collaborated with Pete Harvey in Perth, Scotland in the writing of this tune and his contributions were invaluable. I hope all of your listeners enjoy 'Parting'.

Parting

I became enthralled with the painting "Nighthawks" by Edward Hopper and it eventually became the inspiration for this tune. The painting conjures so many varied notions such as isolation, relaxation, calmness, idle chatter, being lonesome yet comfortable, late night rendezvous, etc.

Gazing At 'Nighthawks'

Azzure Skies was inspired by my visits to the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Azure Skies

This piece was a collaborative with Dan Konopka of OK Go. I thank him for the fine job he did mastering this piece.

Blue Ridge Grandeur

This is a depiction of a family picnic. One of the children goes to the piano and starts plunking an easy little ditty. Eventually, others catch on, grab their instruments and join in for a raucous chorus. Eventually the adults fade away to go back to chatting and drinking while the child continues to play.

Il Picnic Di Famiglia

From my album 'La famiglia'; the love of the family.

La Famiglia Innamorata

This song ('Into Our Family') started my work on creating an Italian-themed album. It was written for my daughter who had just told me she was expecting a child. It is full of symbolism. The child was born and his name is Henry.

Nella Nostra Famiglia

This play on words and the picture of this beautiful lady reflect the playful spirit of this tune. It was written for Mark Werlein and The Leisure Time Big Band.

Her Eyes Have It

I am a composer offering services to film, TV, and advertisement concerns. Please contact me if you would like to discuss a project. The tracks I have provided will give you a good overall impression of my direction and strengths. Thank you for listening!

Mark Werlein

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