This piece began as an idea in which underlying rhythms or textures were arranged to push or pull the melody. Rhythms and climaxes within the composition are shifting the various melodic fragments, creating broad splashes of sound.

In contrast to its traditional role as a melodic instrument, the cello provides the rhythmic drive with sharp, percussive attacks and gestures, while the vibraphone and piano are interacting to create polyrhythmic melodies between each instrument.

Ripitide won the award for Best Composition at the Festival of New American Music 2004 with a performance by Hans Hoffer, cello; Mike Dale, piano, and Mike Crain, vibraphone.

Kirsten Smith, piano; Tim Stanley, cello; Dan Kennedy, vibraphone