Tail Spins is a one movement work in several sections, starting with a flippant theme that recurs throughout, followed by a rolling waltz section and finally by a rather fast "funky" groove that technically challenges all of the musicians-as the title Tail Spins suggests. The title comes from my other passion-flying. Like much of my music, this piece blends commercial styles with classical technique-music that is played so well by my Los Angeles recording musician friends. -Jim Self