Composer’s Note:

This work, commissioned by the SOLI Chamber Ensemble, is abstractly inspired by the effect known as the ring of fire (also known as Baily’s beads and the Diamond Ring) effect during second and third contacts of a total solar eclipse. I observed the 2017 total solar eclipse on August 21, 2017 from the Agate Fossil Bed Monument in western Nebraska and was absolutely captivated by the experience. The “Ring of Fire” is breathtaking.