A fun and short peice for string orchestra, Machina (MAHK-in-ə), was inspired by the sounds and movements of the mechanics of old industrial technology on a large scale. The opening snap pizzicato in the second violins is like the spark of the “ON” switch igniting a chain of events. The sixteenth-note rhythm in the first violins is present through the entire piece. In the opening, it represents the small gears beginning to turn. As that rhythm is traded among the different sections, the energy picks up. Throughout the piece you will hear other sounds like pistons firing, breaks squeaking, and engines growling as this large machine comes to life.