This work dates from April 1996, as the comet Hyakutake and the solar system converged in time and space – an intersection not to be repeated for another 40,000 years. I felt that I myself was not only witness to this extraordinary convergence, but a participant in a cosmic rendezvous. Music sprang to life in my inner ear. Such was the conception of this piece.

As Hyakutake streaked across the heavens at astronomical velocity, the Earth, by contrast, lazily wheeled through space. We drove at a more humble speed to a beach on Staten Island, beyond the obliterating glare of New York City lights. Venus was already low on the horizon, as though not to detract from the glory of the comet. Hyakutake was brilliant, even without a telescope. I felt not only a witness to this extraordinary convergence, but a participant in a cosmic rendezvous.

This work is dedicated to the Portuguese virtuoso Francisco Monteiro.