I started writing a solo piece for viola. A chord was needed. The chord was turned into a piano improvisation. The improvisation became an electronic voice. It sounded to me like the sea. Writing for a solo piece is special. Then I wanted to explore the instrument's sound and expressive possibilities, the peculiarity of the instrument; The viola's C string is wonderful. Double stops - lovely. Quarter tones - they open up the ears. Show me your special tricks, I say to the musician. What sounds good, what sits well on the instrument? That part of the composing process is what I like the most. “I Thought the Sea Would Sing to Me” is composed for Nathan Sherman. Gustav Lindsten, my former student, made the electronic part. Thank you both for a fruitful collaboration.