The title of this piece refers both to my compositional process and the general character of the composition. When composing many of my previous works, I created rigorous systems that determined most of the piece. While this method was interesting, I began to feel quite distant from the resulting music. I wanted to write a piece in which thirty-second notes and ensemble densities were not calculated before I sat down to compose. While composing Stream I tried to do the exact opposite - composing off the top of my head, writing whatever streamed out, with no plan. From this music a formal scheme emerged, but I was still never really certain where the music was headed. As for its character, Stream is consistently driving forward. Even when interrupted it always returns to its relentless push ahead. The harmonic language, rhythmic energy, and short, repeated phrases probably are a reflection of the music I regularly listen to, as opposed to what I have been studying and teaching.