On Reflection

On Reflection is a companion piece to the earlier sextet The Miraculous Mandolin(2007), for a similar combination of instruments. But it is somewhat more introspective, as implied by the title, which also refers to the technical processes employed. The first section sets up a contrast between busy linear material and ‘frozen’ chordal passages, both emanating from a single source. The first part of the final section largely develops the quick character, but the piece ends with a chorale-like reworking of the chords. At the centre is a slow section, which perhaps reflects the title most aptly.