In Flux (for flute, violin, cello and piano) explores harmonic stability and instability by investigating the wonderful clashes that exist between our 12-ET tuning system and the naturally-occurring overtone series. Beginning in a dark and static sound-world, the search for harmonic stability and the resolution of these two mutually exclusive phenomena creates a constant sense of motion, propelling the piece to brighter moments and an emphatic climax. After a turbulent journey, the clashes between the overtone series and 12-ET remain and fade to an colourful, ethereal accord.

In Flux was workshopped and recorded by Psappha Ensemble on 20th March 2023.

Ildaite, meaning ‘multicoloured’ in Irish, is a string quartet inspired by the Northern Lights. This piece intends to evoke an array of hues from this wonderful natural phenomenon by focusing on harmonic and timbral colours.

The Northern Lights are formed when solar wind particles emitted from the sun collide with the Earth’s atmosphere. The colour we see depends on the altitude at which they come into contact with gaseous particles in our atmosphere. Pale red, yellow, green and finally blue can be observed as these particles travel towards the Earth. Ildaite explores this journey, beginning with shimmering solar energy and eventually arriving at a deep blue which fades away into the night sky.

Performed by Quatuor Danel in March 2022 during a postgraduate composition workshop at the University of Manchester.

Litmus Papers (for orchestra) examines the fascinating connection that exists between music and the visual arts, inspired by the colourful musical descriptions of synaesthetic composers such as Olivier Messiaen.

Harmony, instrumental timbre and register play an important role in conveying four particular colours – orange, green, coral red and indigo. These musical parameters work together to evoke emotional responses which are intended to closely match the feeling or reaction a person may have when they experience the visual manifestation of a particular colour. First presented one at a time, the colours are gradually used in various combinations to create increasingly rich and intricate textures.

This recording was taken from a performance in the Cosmo Rodewald Concert Hall in March 2022.

Imperium (for two violins) was written in response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Conflict between opposing forces and the struggle for dominance and control define the relationship between the two violins. Violin 1 assumes the role of the invader and dominates the opening of the piece with aggressive and unpredictable flourishes. Violin 2 represents the Ukrainian voice - more passive and subdued, it slowly builds to an expressive and passionate climax.

Imperium was performed by Diane Daly and Katherine Hunka at the SCS Killaloe Music Festival on 5th June 2022. It was also broadcast by RTE Lyric FM on ‘The Full Score with Liz Nolan' Show on 15 May 2023.