Recent Compositions

Robbie Strauss - Gone, but still here (2026)

Gone, but still here explores the range of experiences associated with dementia, and having a loved one with dementia. Specifically, it deals with the loss of my grandfather to Alzheimer's when I was very young, and the effect it's had on my family.

The Rhythm Method

Leah Asher, Maya Bennardo, violins

Carrie Frey, Viola

Meaghan Burke, Cello

Robbie Strauss - on the way down (2025)

Duration: 6m

on the way down is a dramatic work for large chamber ensemble that blossoms out of a funeral march-like idea, with the occasional stop to smell the flowers. It was written for Old Bay New Music Ensemble in the fall of 2025.

Old Bay New Music Ensemble

Chu Ying Lam, Conductor

Recent Performances

Patrick Flannery - after creation (2026)

after creation is a solo flute piece I worked on with Patrick over the winter of 25/26. The piece is calming and flows naturally with my breath, giving it a meditative quality. Yet, it marches ever forward, developing a melodic line that can be heard in my voice. Many an in-between fragile sound of the flute can be heard, and this intention also brings a special vulnerability to this piece I enjoy.

Robbie Strauss, flute

Kylan Hillman - Clipping (2021)

Clipping is a solo flute piece that pushes the flute to its limits, breaking over harmonics and using the full dynamic range of the instrument. While fingerings and individual notes are often left undetermined, the many other aspects of playing are not, which makes this piece a very kind of different technical challenge. Kylan sent me this piece to be performed this on a solo recital in April 2026 and I had so much fun doing so!