​I wrote this short piece in the latter part of 2024. It aims to exploit the particular characteristics of the viola, using as a starting point the most basic sound common to all string instruments, the interval of the perfect fifth (produced by playing two open strings together). Although, as the title implies, the work is song-like, it is also a miniature set of variations which gradually increase in speed, reach a climax and then recede via a return to the opening material.

The piece is dedicated to the memory of the composer and writer Bayan Northcott. He very generously dedicated his last completed work to me and this piece, I hope, returns the compliment.