Forbidden Alchemy (2021)
Written for Bass Clarinet & Marimba (4.3 octave)
Duration: 4 minutes & 30 seconds
Program Notes
Forbidden Alchemy (2013 Understanding this Dark Magic / 2021, retitled Forbidden Alchemy) is a programmatic work inspired by the TV show Fullmetal Alchemist—the story of two young alchemists who go too far in their pursuit to bring their mother back from the dead and to push their alchemy (or “magic”) to its limits.
The work begins with a series of curious and aggressive gestures, serving as a warning that greater danger and more intense material lie ahead. Our brave musicians are soon pulled into an ambiguous B-like section where the beat is constantly disrupted by rapidly changing meters (6/8 to 3/4, 6/8 to 7/8, 4/4 to 12/8 to 7/8 to 2/4, and so on).
We hear the B-section “theme” as a desperate plea to turn back and abandon the madness—but it is constantly dragged downward. As the spiral deepens, the saxophonist rips through the chaos, ascending out of the anarchy… only to discover that the madness continues in an A’ section.
Our musicians are worn down, fighting to push forward to the very end. Just when it seems to be over, both players ascend once more, pushing beyond their previous limits.
However, it is not enough. Their demand exceeds their supply.
“Humankind cannot gain anything without first giving something in return. To obtain, something of equal value must be lost.”
—Edward Elric, Fullmetal Alchemist
Program Note Shortened (150 words)
Originally titled Understanding This Dark Magic (2013); retitled Forbidden Alchemy (2021)
Inspired by the anime Fullmetal Alchemist, Forbidden Alchemy explores the dangers of unchecked ambition through the lens of two young alchemists who attempt to defy death—and pay a heavy price.
The music opens with ominous, forceful gestures, warning of what lies ahead. A turbulent middle section follows, driven by erratic meter changes and collapsing rhythms. This instability reflects the characters’ descent into chaos as they’re drawn deeper into their pursuit.
A brief moment of clarity emerges, only to be overtaken by a distorted return of earlier material. The performers push past their limits—but it is not enough. Their journey ends, exhausted and unresolved.
"Humankind cannot gain anything without first giving something in return."
—Edward Elric, Fullmetal Alchemist
Performance History
May 8, 2025 - Night of Percussion, West Texas A&M University