Coleridge-Taylor Perkinson shares the following information directly in the score for this piece:
The inspiration for this composition, though non-programmatic, is somewhat autobiographical in that it represents my attempts at what were and are my relationships to members of my family — past and present. While each of the movements is without a strict “formal” mode, an informal analysis of their structures is as follows:
- Misterioso and Allegro (to my daughter) is based on two motifs: the B-A-C-H idea (in German these letters represent the pitches B-flat, A-natural, C-natural, and B-natural), and the American folk tune Mockingbird, also known as Hush Li'l Baby, Don't Say a Word.
- Alla sarabande (sarabande, a seventeenth and eighteenth century dance in slow triple meter) is dedicated to the matriarchs of my immediate family (of which there were for me, three), each of whom contributed a unique form of guidance for life's journey.
- Alla Burletta (to my grandson). A burletta is an Italian term for a diminutive burlesca or burlesque-type work — a composition in a playful and jesting mood. Thematically, this movement is based on the pop tune Li'l Brown Jug.
- Allegro vivace. This movement is a loosely constructed third rondo, which thematically begins with a fughetta (original melody), has a second theme (African in origin), and a third theme (Mockingbird paraphrased). Once again, the B-A-C-H idea from the first movement is the musical thread that ties these elements together. This movement is dedicated to the patriarchs of my family, known and unknown, past, present and future, for generations.
How fortunate for us to have been left with such a descriptive intent behind this genius’s work! The Sinfonietta is full of substance, contrast and beauty. In the Alla Burletta movement, listen for humor in the syncopated pizzicatos from each string section. The work with its clear jazz influences will lift your spirits, and the surprise ending is sure to leave any listener with a sense of effervescent delight!
— Afa Dworkin