Sapphire Shimmer, Silica Slide is a descriptive work full of contrasts. It alternates between the morning stillness of the beach and the intrusion of the sounds of the four-wheel drive motorbikes as they slide in and out of the sand dunes. The opening page conveys the gentle lapping of the waves and the sun shining on the waters. The syncopated rhythms intrude, suggesting the adrenaline felt by the riders as the bikes slide around unexpected corners.

From the Composer

Sapphire Shimmer, Silica Slide was written in response to a gift I received. The gift was given to me by my husband, to go on a morning sand dune safari, riding four-wheel drive motorbikes in the mountainous dunes near Nelson Bay, New South Wales, Australia. Although terrifying at first, it was magnificent. The coast was spectacular; huge white dangerous dunes and the sparkling ocean. We were told we had to ride exactly in the path of the leader or risk being fatally surprised by a dune that could collapse or avalanche. We rode as we were told and the exhilaration coupled with the beauty made for a wonderful morning. The bikes were noisy but the stillness of the ocean and sand was magic. This piece is dedicated to Mavis Shannon, my childhood neighbour and piano teacher, who encouraged me musically and is like my second grandmother.