monique is an excellent trombonist. she once commissioned a trombone piece from me and premiered it in new york. she was very open to collaboration, told me whatever i needed to know about both the trombone and her playing style, at the same time she was confident in composerly decisions. when i solicited feedback from her, she gave it constructively. but whatever i ultimately decided, she followed and trusted. it was a new experience for me, especially as an intimidated and insecure young composer. the piece i wrote for monique (which you can read about and listen to here) is the last piece of music i've written that has been performed. it felt right to me to be meditating on this now that i am poised to start writing music again. in japanese, brass instruments are referred to has "kinkan" or "golden/metal pipes." this ink piece is one in a bunch of inks i drew in about the same week. they are comtemplative, taking little time in execution, but much time in contemplation. i hope monique likes my impression of her instrument.