Sea of Stars

The Sea of Stars is a popular tourist destination on the island of Vaadhoo in the Maldives. Special phytoplankton called dinoflagellates turn blue when disturbed, a process called bioluminenscense. As the waves break and crash against the shore, the water turns a sparkling blue. It's as if the stars are being reflected in the water. The opening of the piece imitates the sparkling water while a nostalgic tune is presented by a solo cello. As the music swells and gets faster, the theme is passed around the orchestra until a final climactic statement brings back the opening material. The piece ends as quietly and magically as it started.