Exit, Pursued by a Bear takes its title from a famous (and rather perplexing) stage direction in Shakespeare’s “The Winter’s Tale.” Menacing and yet somewhat whimsical, it has a frenetic, driving energy that persists throught the length of the piece. Not coincidentally, the bear happens to be the mascot of the Univeristy of Central Arkansas, which led the commissioning of the work. The premiere took place at the 2021 International Trombone Festival, led by UCA’s Dr. Justin Cook.

Cover Art: “Brown Bear in Shadow” Copyright Matthew Studebaker, used with permission.