Sinfin, Os and Réflexions, rose nord are pieces for woodwind and vibraphone reflecting upon aspects of the three great rose windows of Chartres Cathedral.  Worldwhorls, which completes the tetralogy, has its origins in the Labyrinth beneath the West Rose, the labyrinth itself having strong connections with that window.  It seems to me to be a metaphor for life itself.  Commencing with the womb-like central rosette, one makes one’s way via 34 sharp angles (corresponding to the 34 verses of the Dies Irae) and 35 passes, to emerge facing this brilliant judgement-day window.  Worldwhorls bases its structure and wayward energy on the experience of walking the Labyrinth with this metaphor in mind.  It was written for Henri Bok, who gave its first performance in Brazil in 2000.

Commissioned by Henri Bok.