Andrew's Catalog
This entire catalog--music and lyrics--is registered with the United States Department of the Copyright. Visit Safioleas's MyScore Page of the J.W. Pepper Sheet Music Distributor to purchase several of his works!
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Piano Sonata No. 1, Op. 1 (2006)
Seven Preludes, Op. 2 (2007, Rev. 2024)
Originally written in 2007 for solo piano, Safioleas revised this series of seven preludes in 2024. Being one of the earliest works of his, the influence from Safioleas's classical music studies can be experienced throughout the work. Overall—in the significant revision of these preludes—Safioleas not only strengthened and expanded the melodies; but further developed the harmonies, as well. Modern musical elements were crafted into the work. He likes to think of them as a "breath of fresh air," as all seven preludes are delicate, expressive, and inviting, providing for a wonderful opportunity to meditate and retreat. Any of the seven preludes can be performed separately, and not be considered out of context, or lacking in presentation. Although possessing similar elements such as flowing harmonies, all of the preludes give the pianist unique and fulfilling opportunities to present beautiful and passionate stories to audiences.
Piano Concerto in C Minor, Op. 3 (2007)
Harborside Melody, Op. 4 (2012)
Harborside Melody was inspired by several visits to the south end beaches of New Bedford, Massachusetts. It is a duet for violin and piano, dedicated to Mrs. Kathy Baptiste, Safioleas’s former high school math teacher. She used to tell him stories about how she would play piano, and her father would drown her out on the violin—to comfort her—because she did not have confidence in her playing ability. It is deeply expressive and provides a vivid image of the waves of the ocean. The violinist presents a dominating and passionate—yet distressing—melody. The rapid currents can be heard distinctly in the piano, and periods of emerging sunlight are evident, as well. The pianist accepts a test of endurance and clarity in delivery when embarking on the performance of this work. The ocean remains a rich source of inspiration for Safioleas.
My Guardian, Op. 5 (2014, Rev. 2022)
My Guardian was created to conclude the holiday concert program that Safioleas presented at the James Arnold Mansion of New Bedford, Massachusetts, in 2014. The song is a tribute to those we have lost that still watch over us, containing lyrics that are promising and tender. Its debut performance—originally scored as a soprano and bass duet—received a tremendously emotional standing ovation. Safioleas performed a piano reduction of the song during his American Cancer Society fundraiser concert at the Steinway Recital Hall of M. Steinert and Sons, formerly located in Natick, Massachusetts, in 2016. He revised the work in 2022 for soprano voice and piano accompaniment.
Verse One
When I am lonely, you are there for me.
When all the sky’s as gray as it can be.
Even though you may not be here today,
In my heart is where you will always stay.
You are an angel watching over me.
My inspiration and my everything.
Chorus
I will never back down
Because of you, you give me strength.
You will always be there
Right by my side, giving me the
Courage I need to overcome
Everything I encounter from here.
Verse Two
When I am straying, you show me the way.
The one I will trust and I will obey.
Anytime, I can always count on you.
You and I, we will always make it through.
Whenever I find that I can’t move on,
You give me hope when everyone is gone.
Chorus
I will never back down
Because of you, you give me strength.
You will always be there
Right by my side, giving me the
Courage I need to overcome
Everything I encounter from here.
Verse Three
Whenever I fall, you give me your hand.
You give me more than I will understand.
Even when I do not believe I can,
You know well what to do and have a plan.
I can’t imagine what I’d ever do
Without my dear friend, the one I turn to.
Chorus
I will never back down
Because of you, you give me strength.
You will always be there
Right by my side, giving me the
Courage I need to overcome
[hum measures 127-132]
Liberation, Op. 6 (2015)
Liberation was prepared for a Halloween recital program that Safioleas was hosting at his home in 2015. A duet for violin and piano, the work is two movements: Awakening and Flight. The first movement is intended to portray the awakening of spirits. It is eerie and mysterious in nature, giving the violinist an opportunity to present a longing—yet delicate—melody. The pianist contributes to the haunting essence of the work with its harp-like, supportive accompaniment, effectively emulating bell-tones. The abrupt departure of these spirits can be experienced in the second movement. This Presto section—which is barely two minutes in length—presents a wonderful challenge for the violinist, with its plentiful double stops and beautifully contrasting pizzicato. The melody rests on the back of a strong and lively accompaniment. The final measures of the movement reveal the departure of the last of the remaining spirits.
Listen to a previous performance!
Prelude, Op. 7 (2016)
Written by Safioleas during the week of May 15, 2016, this prelude for solo piano was intended to open his American Cancer Society fundraiser concert on Saturday, May 21, 2016, at the M. Steinert and Sons Recital Hall at its former location in Natick, Massachusetts. The event was entitled "Serene Beginnings," and the work appropriately encouraged the audience to calmly reflect on what the future has in store. To Safioleas, the music suggests that one is in an exciting state of transformation. Listeners have expressed increased captivation as the journey progresses. In it are soaring and sweeping patterns that ultimately merge in a satisfying and hopeful conclusion.
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Promenade, Op. 8 (2017)
Promenade is a captivating and lively trio for two violins and piano, which was written to conclude the charity concert fundraiser hosted in 2017 at the M. Steinert and Sons Recital Hall at its former location in Natick, Massachusetts. While Safioleas lived in New Bedford, Massachusetts, he enjoyed routine walks at Buttonwood Park. These walks inspired him to create the piece. The vibrancy, attractiveness, and energy of the environment culminated in a work that invites the audience on a leisurely and confident trip that is sure to become a pleasant and unforgettable one. You’ll find it hard not to hum these appealing melodies after experiencing this work!
Revelation, Op. 9 (2017)
Revelation contains the performance instructions, Espressivo e misterioso ("Expressive and mysteriously"). It is a duet for violin and piano that was written by Safioleas for inclusion in his second American Cancer Society fundraiser concert on Saturday, June 24, 2017, at the M. Steinert and Sons Recital Hall, formerly located in Natick, Massachusetts. To the composer, a revelation can be experienced by the audience, approximately at the point where the work modulates from A minor to B minor. To the matter of what, the audience is welcome to decide. Perhaps the piece depicts one's ascent or descent of an intimidating structure, only to discover its true beauty? Whatever the interpretation, the piece seems to open with intense expression and evoke unexpected delight as it develops. Safioleas and his former violin student, Elizabeth Brunner (Shangraw), gave its debut performance.
Dancin' With The Devil, Op. 10 (2018)
Dancin’ With The Devil is a fierce, bold, and impactful trio for two violins and piano, which was written to conclude the charity concert fundraiser program hosted in 2018 at the M. Steinert and Sons Recital Hall at its former location in Natick, Massachusetts. Safioleas desired to present an engaging and entertaining work in the intimate, meditative, and stunning space. The element of mischief in the trio is responsible for the name that it bears. Audiences have delighted in its inviting and mesmerizing dance form. Try and snap yourself out of this magnificent and tempting experience!
Prelude, Op. 11 (2018)
Written by Safioleas in 2018, this prelude was presented at his third American Cancer Society fundraiser concert on Saturday, June 9, 2018, at the M. Steinert and Sons Recital Hall at its former location in Natick, Massachusetts. It is a solo work for piano in E flat minor, bursting with emotion and significantly dark in temperament. The melody builds gradually, as if to express a growing tension and frustration. There is a glimmer of light—possibly hope, or a positive thought or memory—which is revealed in the dance-like passage that emerges; yet it abruptly and vigorously comes to an end. The theme returns—ultimately developing into an agitated state at a peak dynamic of fortississimo—only to eventually settle, and reach a similar state to what was experienced at the beginning of the piece.
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Perseverance, Op. 12 (2019, Rev. 2022)
Perseverance was inspired by a photograph taken of violinist James Ferus at Tomales Bay, California. Ferus and Safioleas were colleagues in high school, studying and performing music together. The photograph depicts James extending his arms in apparent victory, in front of turbulent waves. The shot resonated significantly with Safioleas, so much that he decided to write a Piano Quintet for James in 2019. Cinematic in nature, the work is intended to portray the act of persevering through a challenging conflict. It was debuted at the Steinway Recital Hall of M. Steinert and Sons, formerly located in Natick, Massachusetts, in 2019. Safioleas revised the work this year. The main melody is first presented in a lyric form, and later, develops into a march-like form. This transformation represents the adaptation of an individual in response to the troubles encountered in life. As a whole, Perseverance also aims to depict the beauty and power of the ocean.
Let's Go, Op. 13 (2019, Rev. 2022)
Let’s Go was written for the charity concert fundraiser program hosted in 2019 at the M. Steinert and Sons Recital Hall at its former location in Natick, Massachusetts. A Piano Quintet with abundant energy and colorful melodies, it is dedicated to its original performers and was revised this year. The piece offers an enjoyable and charming challenge for its performers. Quite rhythmic and with alternating time signatures, it maintains a fast-paced and stimulating structure. There are even opportunities for the upper strings to engage in percussion! Audiences are welcomed by the performers to join them on an exciting journey.
Enas choros pou tha thymomaste, Op. 14 (2019)
Enas choros pou tha thymomaste (Greek: ΈΝΑΣ ΧΟΡΌΣ ΠΟΥ ΘΑ ΘΥΜΌΜΑΣΤΕ) was written in 2019 to conclude the annual holiday concert fundraiser program that Safioleas routinely organized with his colleague, philanthropist, Maria “Ria” Clough, at the Wamsutta Club at the James Arnold Mansion in New Bedford, Massachusetts. The title translation is “A Dance That We Will Remember.” The piece is a demonstration of the variety and versatility of Safioleas as a composer. Additionally, it is a tribute to his family and friends of Greek descendance. The melodies—expressive and possessing a distinct Greek flair—are wonderfully supported by the lower strings and piano. The contrasting sections build with intensity and animation as the work progresses. There are even directions for the performers to shout “OPA!” during the piece, and audiences are invited to clap on the downbeats; both actions frequently observed in Greek dance music.
All You Need Is Courage, Op. 15 (2022)
Verse One
Every day I give it all I can. Even when I don’t think there’s a way.
Everything that waits for me each time; sooner than I think, passes to the side.
Life will take its course and you have to be stronger than you think you can.
Look! Here we are today. Just imagine what we can do tomorrow!
Verse Two
Can you believe what we have become? Why did it seem that we never could?
Anything is possible when you always try your best, and you give your all.
Like a thunderstorm, it will pass us by. Then you’ll see that we are fine.
Stop! Don’t forget to breathe. Just remember why you began in the first place.
Chorus
And all you need is courage. Then you will find that you are almost there.
Even when you feel that you can’t go on, always look ahead and don’t look back!
Courage is all you need, and with it you will conquer all your fears.
Yes, it’s really true! Every day’s a new day!
Verse Three
Deep inside I know I can succeed. I will never let it get to me.
No matter what troubles I may find, I will not give up! I will carry on.
Every battle is one more chance to grow. I’m ready for what’s ahead.
Dreams really come alive! We would never be where we are without one thing;
Chorus (Repeat)
And all you need is courage. Then you will find that you are almost there.
Even when you feel that you can’t go on, always look ahead and don’t look back!
Courage is all you need, and with it you will conquer all your fears.
Yes, it’s really true! Every day’s a new day!
La da da da da
La da da da da
da da da
Dreams, Op. 16 (2022, Rev. 2023)
Verse One
Hello, my friends! I’d like to say something that you might find relieving.
Each and every day we live through, troubles appear, which is deceiving.
With every step we take, it may seem more and more unlikely to stay strong and comprehend.
However, we must hold onto our ambitions! If there’s one thing I know: it’s that storms end.
Verse Two
First and foremost, if nothing else, when you get up, inhale a deep breath.
Don’t let the bad outweigh the good! Most things are small; they’re not life or death.
No matter how we feel or what the day brings us, we must make memories out of our dreams.
Remember all you’ve done, and all the games you’ve won. Don’t give up no matter how bad it seems!
Chorus
Dreams are the reasons why we go on!
Dreams are the reasons why we don’t give up!
Dreams are the reasons why we will never stop!
[Instrumental]
Verse Three
What you must take from this message: always stand tall and know your own worth.
None of your goals or your passions will be robbed by anyone on Earth.
You will be where you want soon enough, as long as you don’t let others hinder your progress.
All things are possible with the right frame of mind. Learn to rid yourself of all of that stress!
Chorus
Dreams are the reasons why we go on!
Dreams are the reasons why we don’t give up!
Dreams are the reasons why we will never stop!
Dreams…
The Marvelous Voyage, Op. 17 (2022)
The Marvelous Voyage was the result of Safioleas’s fascination with travel. The act of traveling has been known to significantly inspire and encourage artists in the productive sense. Safioleas traveled frequently via train while living in Massachusetts. His rides on the Commuter Rail to and from Quincy College during the Summer of 2006 particularly stimulated him to create this work, which finally came to fruition this year. Time and motivation aligned to permit Safioleas to create this thrilling and encaptivating work. The Marvelous Voyage is intended to portray an unforgettable and exciting journey via train. The train bells—as well as rattling of tracks—are vividly apparent throughout the work. The strings present a soaring and passionate melody, bursting with vitality and confidence.
Watch Out! Op. 18 (2022, Rev. 2023)
Verse One
I am ready to make history.
I want all the glory and the fame.
You will think that it’s a mystery.
Let me show you how I’ll win this game.
Just when you think that I will fail, I get the strength to carry on.
Nothing is ever what it seems. Don’t blink your eyes or you’ll miss me.
There is no way that I’ll quit. Before you know it, I’m gone.
You’ll never know where I went. Just wait, and then you will see.
Chorus
Watch Out! I’m comin’ through. Now I’m right next to you.
Watch Out! I’m on the move. I’ve got something to prove.
Watch Out! You’ve made it clear that I will persevere.
Watch Out! You’ve lost the lead. I keep picking up speed. Watch Out!
Verse Two
Keep in mind that this is no dream.
Everything is very true and real.
The end is not where it may seem.
I won’t stop no matter how I feel.
Right when the darkness falls on me, I find the light that gets me through.
All of the progress that I’ve made is paying off amazingly.
How can you deny my lead? I am a wonder to you.
Never will you understand how I make it look easy.
Chorus
Watch Out! I’m comin’ through. Now I’m right next to you.
Watch Out! I’m on the move. I’ve got something to prove.
Watch Out! You’ve made it clear that I will persevere.
Watch Out! You’ve lost the lead. I keep picking up speed. Watch Out!
[Instrumental]
Verse Three
Here I am now, on the descent.
I look back and wonder where you are?
What a feeling to be content!
What an honor to have come this far!
Give it a rest! You won't believe how far I've traveled on this road.
When will you admit your defeat? Things don't look great for you right now!
I built the courage to grow. You weren't prepared, and it showed.
I will remember this day. One where I found the know-how.
Chorus
Watch Out! I’m comin’ through. Now I’m right next to you.
Watch Out! I’m on the move. I’ve got something to prove.
Watch Out! You’ve made it clear that I will persevere.
Watch Out! You’ve lost the lead. I keep picking up speed. Watch Out!
Watch Out!
You Make Me Crazy, Op. 19 (2022, Rev. 2023)
Verse One
No matter what I do, you fault me. You could be wrong; yet you are carefree.
How do you fall asleep at night? Do tell!
Give it a rest! You won’t change my mind. You just hit me with lies that you find.
Why won’t you tell us what is right? Oh well!
You were the one that I trusted. Now look at you, here lying and busted! Disappointing!
This is the way that you will meet your fate. All I will do is stand right here and wait. What a feeling! Oh!
Verse Two
When did you start to lose your good sense? Things have become gloomy and intense.
I can remember everything. That’s right!
There was a time when you would come through. Now it’s about no one else but you.
Who died and left you as the king? Red light!
Tell me how you fell off the track. You lost your strength, and it may not come back. Pay attention!
It seems that you believe you do no wrong. But, can you tell why I wrote this great song?
Let me mention! Yeah!
Chorus (Sung Twice)
You make me crazy every single day.
I go insane with everything you say.
You make me crazy with that look you give.
I need to move on, or I will never live.
Verse Three
Never did I think I would be here, but thankfully I am without fear.
I am a stronger person now. Watch out!
I will prevail, in all that I do. You can’t deny something that is true.
You find a fault in me somehow. No doubt!
Might I suggest that you stop this? You take your shots, and all you do is miss. Can you see it? It’s that you’ll never see where you fell short if you pretend that you know the whole sport. And you won’t quit! Oh!
Chorus (Sung Twice)
You make me crazy every single day.
I go insane with everything you say.
You make me crazy with that look you give.
I need to move on, or I will never live.
You make me crazy. Just crazy!
Reassurance, Op. 20 (2022)
Reassurance was inspired by Safioleas’s aunt, Evangelia Xiarhos, to whom the work is dedicated. Born premature, Safioleas received intensive care as an infant. The constant needle sticks and medical attention overwhelmed him. Evangelia would ask the nursing staff to roll his incubator to the observation window. She would so much as tap on the glass, and his crying would cease. Since then, Safioleas has always found comfort in her presence. Her soothing and encouraging nature is deeply experienced in this work. Reassurance is a gorgeous lyric piece for solo piano. Uplifting, refreshing, and promising, it reminds us that everything is going to be okay.
Listen to a previous performance!
Exuberance, Op. 21 (2022)
Exuberance is a work for solo piano that is filled with energy, excitement, and determination. Its memorable melodies are overflowing with vibrance and jubilance. The pianist is presented with a wonderful opportunity to tell an unforgettable story. A key challenge that they encounter is the need to maintain consistent momentum; from the piece’s exhilarating introduction, to its final, powerful concluding chords. An additional delight is the several, cascading passages present throughout the work, which heighten the performing—as well as listening—experience all that much more. Anticipatory and attractive elements are, certainly, in abundance.
Listen to a previous performance!
Three Songs for Bass or Baritone, Op. 22 (2023)
This compilation of songs was written by Safioleas in 2023 as a reminder to believe in yourself, seize all opportunities, and enjoy life.
I. It’s All Noise
Verse One
Listen to me! I’ve got something to tell you.
You will want to hear these words before you lose what you’ve earned. I mean it!
This is the thing: you will find your way on through.
If you pay mind to this all, and value what you’ve learned. Be ready!
Verse Two
Give me a break! Nothing they say will matter.
Nothing they do will hurt you, unless you let down your guard. Keep focus!
Don’t let yourself be alarmed by the chatter.
They just want to throw you off. Why do they play that card? Who cares?
Chorus
It’s all noise! Get it out of your head now!
It has no place in your life. No place in your life! Yeah!
It’s all noise! You are too good for that game!
No one stands a chance with you. No one stands a chance!
Verse Three
What do you say? Is it clearer to you now?
Will you let them bring you down? Or are you smarter than that? You tell me!
It is a test. You will make it work somehow.
But the point is that this is something you must work at. Be confident!
Chorus (Repeat)
It’s all noise! Get it out of your head now!
It has no place in your life. No place in your life! Yeah!
It’s all noise! You are too good for that game!
No one stands a chance with you. No one stands a chance!
It’s all noise!
II. Time Will Pass
Verse One
Every day that goes by
is a page in your book.
Every time that you try
shows the strength that it took.
Verse Two
No one can block your way.
You will find a path through.
Keep in mind that the day
won’t drag on just for you.
Chorus
Time will pass! It will fly.
Don’t forget! Do it! Move on!
Time will pass! Don’t you wait!
Make that move right now!
Verse Three
In this world, you will see
that you must stand your ground.
Be the best you can be,
and never wait around.
Chorus (Repeat)
Time will pass! It will fly.
Don’t forget! Do it! Move on!
Time will pass! Don’t you wait!
Make that move right now!
Time will pass.
III. Join The Party
Verse One
Follow me right this way. Keep with me; don’t delay!
I can’t wait to show you this! Are you ready?
You will be glad you came. Unlike them; what a shame!
This is great! We’re almost there.
When we get there, it may seem that nothing can go wrong.
People forget all their troubles and dance all night long.
The drinks flow and there is food just everywhere in sight.
Music plays and people fill the room with noise all night.
Verse Two
You don’t need anything for what this night will bring.
Just arrive, and have a blast. I’m not joking!
There will not be a trace of sadness in the place.
You are in for a good time!
What a scene where everyone is joyful and content!
People will keep telling you they’re happy that they went.
No one has a clue about the time that they’ve been there.
And, the other thing is that no one goes anywhere.
Chorus (Sung Twice)
Join the party! It’s amazing! Leave your worries at the door!
Join the party! Block out sorrow. You won’t believe what’s in store!
Verse Three
Look at that! We’ve made it. It’s unreal, I’ll admit!
Soon enough, your world will change. Without a doubt!
Let’s go in, and be free. You can always trust me.
When have I ever been wrong?
Would you truly say that there’s a better place to be?
To think that so many were once lost like you and me!
This night will be something that you will remember well.
Not to mention all the stories that you will soon tell!
Chorus (Repeat, Sung Twice)
Join the party! It’s amazing! Leave your worries at the door!
Join the party! Block out sorrow. You won’t believe what’s in store!
Join the party right now!
Give It Your Best Shot! Op. 23 (2023)
This vocal duet for Soprano and Tenor was written to conclude the second half of Safioleas's presentation at Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall on Friday, March 8, 2024. It is dedicated to its initial, debut performers, Yan Lian and Robert Bartolome.
Verse One
You may think that there is not a chance that you will score.
Everything makes you feel that you can’t try anymore.
No matter what you do, nothing goes right for you.
All of the steps you take, seem like wrong moves to make.
Verse Two
What you must remember is that you’re one of a kind.
Patience is the greatest skill that you will ever find.
Don’t lose your hope just yet. You will prevail, I bet!
Keep your eyes on the goal! Always maintain control.
Chorus
Give it your best shot! You won’t believe what happens
when you go all in and show the world your strength!
Give it your best shot, and you may surprise yourself!
Before you know it, it’s over and you’ve won.
Soprano: Give it your best shot!
Tenor: Yeah, give it your best shot!
Your best shot!
Your best shot!
Verse Three
Do you think it was worth all that worry and self-doubt?
Now you have a story to tell the whole world about!
It was because you tried. You’re now glowing with pride!
What if you chose to quit? Or you did not commit?
Chorus (Repeat)
Give it your best shot! You won’t believe what happens
when you go all in and show the world your strength!
Give it your best shot, and you may surprise yourself!
Before you know it, it’s over and you’ve won.
Soprano: Give it your best shot!
Tenor: Yeah, give it your best shot!
Your best shot!
Your best shot!
Bailando con Fuego, Op. 24 (2024)
Written to open Safioleas's concert program at Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall on Friday, March 8, 2024, Bailando con Fuego ("Dancing with Fire") is a Spanish Dance for solo piano. It is a lively and bold showpiece, with mesmerizing melodies and pleasantly supportive harmonies. Both percussive and lyric in nature, the work offers a balanced and intriguing experience. The main melody of the piece was, actually, inspired by the title of the work. Typically, Safioleas's music composition process involves first composing the music, and then, assigning a title to the work. Here, he first conceived the title, after which, he then began to write the piece. Safioleas had a vision of composing an electrifying, passionate, and resonant dance for solo piano. The title almost immediately came to his mind. If one listens closely, the words Bailando con Fuego can be heard in the main melody.
The Victor's March, Op. 25 (2024)
Written to close the first half of Safioleas’s concert program at Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall on Friday, March 8, 2024, The Victor’s March is a thrilling and encouraging march for solo piano. The main melody of the work was originally conceived in 2019 and incorporated into the first version of Safioleas’s twelfth work, a Piano Quintet entitled, Perseverance. He removed the melody in the revision of that work and decided to re-introduce it in this solo work for piano. Here, Safioleas aimed to present a concise—yet engaging—story of triumph and exhilaration. Similarly, to Safioleas’s aforementioned work, Perseverance, this solo work intends to portray a conflict that—although increasing in intensity—is ultimately resolved in a dramatic and successful manner. A cantabile melodic transitional section—while providing a wonderful contrast—consistently maintains the energy of the work and incorporates motifs from the main melody. The final melody—presented in the relative major key—is designed not only to tie the entire work together, but to represent a well-deserved victory.