The idea of writing a symphony dedicated to the 1798 uprising started around 1989.

The actual work started towards the end of October 1997. The initial ideas for all 4 movements were Jammed over 4 evenings using Cubase VST and a Roland JV1080 orchestral voices module. Refinement of the score took a further two and quarter years. The symphony was completed on 23 Dec 1999.

There are 4 movements: 1. The Harrow, 11 1/2 minutes. The opening movement is an account of the tension and bating leading up to the incident at the Harrow. The evil of the occupiers is heralded by a demonic trumpet fanfare at the beginning. 2. The black flag, 8 minutes. The brief triumph, joy, celebration and reprisals committed at Wexford Jail. The movement also covers feelings of involuntary commitment and uncertainty 3. Vinegar Hill, 26 minutes. The insurgent's camp. This movement is an emotional account within the camp over the entire period of the uprising.

4. Aftermath, 10 minutes. The final movement starts as a requiem. The music evokes imagery of the carnage as an imaginary camera pans backwards and upwards as if it is also passing forward through time. Halfway through the movement becomes positive with the introduction of the piano. The emotion turns to freedom and pride.