Brian Q. Torff, professor of music in the Department of Visual and Performing Arts and renowned bassist, composer, and author, is “constantly” at work on his craft — and this has been especially true in the wake of Covid-19, as he’s spent extra time in his recording studio.

In reaction to the especially divisive political climate during the recent presidential election and the actions of extremist groups, Torff found himself pondering the meaning of truth in general; that thinking resulted in his newest music composition.

“The pandemic forced me to look inward and try to create something I could share with my students,” Torff said about his new piece of music, aptly titled "Truth."

Torff, whose many original scores have been performed by the Boston Pops, the Los Angeles Philharmonic, and the Pittsburgh Symphony, enlisted current Fairfield undergraduate students and University jazz ensemble members trumpeter Hannah Bartfield ’21, guitarist Brian Salvador ’23, and bassist Tom McKenzie '23 to work with him on shaping and recording the tracks for “Truth.”

Bartfield, who is a senior management major, said, “Jazz band has been my favorite extracurricular activity at Fairfield. Coming together to work on 'Truth' this semester was our chance to collaborate [safely, during the pandemic], and I was so grateful that Professor Torff was able to arrange something for all of us.”

While working on the song, an almost five-minute track that swells with dreamy, electronic strings and smooth horns, Torff introduced the jazz ensemble students to new digital recording equipment and software, which he believes is important exposure for young musicians.

“Working with a composer firsthand brings a fresh experience,” said Torff, who is a featured bass soloist at jazz festivals throughout the United States, and is musical director of the Django Reinhardt New York Festival. “Since 1991, when I started the group, I have composed and arranged the music to fit the players and their unique talents. This makes a considerable difference and impact on the student experience.”

Fairfield University’s music program within the College of Arts and Sciences offers the intimacy of a tight-knit arts community embedded within a broad liberal arts education.

“We are the perfect school for someone who wants to continue their music [education] while taking part in a great academic institution,” Torff continued. “Music is a lifelong gift, no matter what career path one chooses.”

Listen to "Truth" on SoundCloud