My inaugural significant composition, Opus 1, Lesotho Variations for Solo Piano, was born out of my time as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Lesotho from 1995 to 1997 during my early 20s. The inspiration for this composition sparked years later upon my return to the United States. Each individual variation is a musical reflection of a scene from Lesotho, ranging from the mundane, like field plowing, to the breathtaking views of the mountains. The initial variations carry a more jovial tone, while the later ones delve into deeper, more somber themes.