Magnification of a Theme

This was composed for the unveiling of the Royal College of Music Flentrop organ, to show off the capabilities of the whole organ. The form of the piece draws from the visual. With a magnifying glass, one can see more clearly the little details of something: holes, bends, grooves, particles, etc. As one draws in closer, there are more details noticed; the view becomes saturated with new things. This process of drawing in closer and of noticing is what defines the form of Magnification of a Theme. There is a seemingly simple and smooth theme to begin with. But as it is repeated—each time being magnified—there are other details that become more ‘visible’.