Threads started out as a technical exercise in counterpoint, before it was fleshed out to become a full piece in its own right. Each instrument introduces a new idea, weaving in and out of one another before culminating in a full tutti passage leading into figure A. Following this is a passage dominated by quartal harmony, before introducing a strong thematic line in the flute underscored by rhythmic unison chords from the remaining four instruments. This middle section is capped off by an expressive flute cadenza, before a return to the mechanical drive of the material from the beginning, re-orchestrated and extended into a coda.

​

c. 4 minutes