My turn - Local music composer demonstrates genius

We have a young composer in our midst with a name to remember: Franklin Piland.

At the annual ENMU Pops Concert on Saturday night, Franklin conducted the premiere performance of a piece he wrote for the event, a rousing opener called "Flourishes and Mechanations."

An enthusiastic ovation rewarded the 2008 graduate of Muleshoe High School who will receive his degree in music performance in May from Eastern New Mexico University.

Franklin is a prolific composer with a number of completed works and many more in progress.

"I believe somewhere deep down in my soul that I was meant to compose," he says.

Even as he applies to graduate schools in other states, he remains profoundly grateful that ENMU music department chair Dustin Seifert recruited him to the Portales campus five years ago.

The two met when Franklin was tuba player in the Clovis Community Band that Seifert conducted.

"He is the largest part of why I have been successful in anything at Eastern, whether it is tuba, composition, or academics," Franklin said. "I cannot find the words that adequately describe his sacrifice and support. I am so tremendously thankful our paths crossed."

Can a world-class composer get his start on the High Plains?

For Franklin Piland, the answer may well turn out to be "yes."

Betty Williamson doesn't usually seek autographs, but she is thinking of making an exception. You may reach her at [email protected].