"The musical compositions on Sonic Migrations represent in some way a passage: A passage through places (globally), history and events, words, sonic environments, peoples lives and their mutual emotions. The pieces are the by product of a time span of some 25 years, encompassing diverse ensembles and sonic frameworks, far flung influences, textures and feelings. CD 1 begins with a set of Five Variations (1994) derived from Rachmaninoff?s Piano Sonata, Opus 35, movement 2. CD 2 opens with Piano Sonata # 7 (2011), inspired by a trip my wife, Jeannine Hummel and I made to Tanzania in that same year. The initial impetus emerged from the percussive character of hand and finger drumming, and attempting to connect that image directly to the piano, particularly in Movement I. The admiration and for me, the blessings of having my music performed so brilliantly by so many inspired, creative and singular musical individuals, has been a gift that I can never repay. Entering into this composers musical world, each one emerged with interpretations and creative commentary that both broadened and elevated content into a place that I could have only hoped and wished for: My own personal place brought out so brilliantly into the world. Thank you all ? thank you!" Laurie Altman - November 2016