The inspiration for “Seppia Suite” originated at a restaurant in Venice where the composer and his wife had the occasion to dine with Canadian violinist Gwen Thompson and her family and friends. It was there that the composer was introduced to a local specialty – spaghetti di sepia – spaghetti made with the ink of the cuttlefish. This happens to be a favourite of the violinist’s daughter, Elizabeth Thompson-Robinow, and when the composer and his wife ventured to partake of the unusual fare, the violinist commissioned the composer on the spot to write a piece for solo violin dedicated to her daughter in honour of her seppia dish. “Seppia Suite” reflects a day in the life of the cuttlefish. He is playful, flirtatious, whimsical and sings his little heart out. And, yes, as the term “suite” – a set of dance movements – suggests, he frolics in the waves. The piece moves from one section to another without a break.