Mirror 9 Program Notes

Mirror 9 is a nine-part suite dedicated to the diversity of human personality, inspired by the nine types of the Enneagram. Each movement reflects a different type—a mirror of a particular way of seeing, feeling, and being in the world. Each Enneagram type has its own path of development—a movement from a less healthy (or “fixated”) expression toward a more integrated and balanced form. The title Mirror 9 suggests that true balance doesn’t come from identifying with a single type, but from integrating the healthy aspects of all nine within ourselves. In this suite, we accompany each of the nine types on their path. Their order of appearance has been shaped to support the musical arc of the whole work.

The title Mirror 9 suggests that true balance doesn’t come from identifying with a single type, but from integrating the healthy aspects of all nine within ourselves. In this suite, we accompany each of the nine types on their path. Their order of appearance has been shaped to support the musical arc of the whole work.


I Prologue
II The Giver (Type 2)

The Giver is full of warmth and care, offering love freely and hoping to be needed in return. At first, everything flows outward—open, generous, and emotionally present. But slowly, doubt creeps in. Questions go unanswered. A growing sense of uncertainty emerges: Am I truly loved, or only for what I give? As the tension builds, the need for appreciation becomes more desperate, more entangled. The emotional space begins to shrink. What was once expansive and giving becomes tight and constricted—until there’s almost nothing left but a single, quiet plea: see ME, not just what I DO for you.

Key qualities: Warmth, generosity, empathy, attunement, support.

Key fear: Being unloved or unwanted.

III The Boss (Type 8)

The Boss is bold, intense, and unafraid to take up space.They push forward with power, refusing to be controlled—often shaking up whatever feels weak or false around them. At first, their presence is raw and forceful, even chaotic—testing limits and demanding strength. But beneath that toughness lies a big heart: a longing for truth, for connection, and for protecting not just themselves, but those they care about.

Key qualities: Strength, protection, directness, leadership.

Key fear: Being controlled, weak, or vulnerable.

IV The Individualist (Type 4)

The Individualist longs to feel authentic and unique, moving through life with deep emotion and a sense of not quite belonging. They’re pulled by longing, beauty, and complexity, not always sure where they stand. They’re drawn to go beyond the familiar, stepping outside expected boundaries, returning only when it still feels true. Eventually, their desire to be different erupts in full force—bold, intense, and unapologetically original. They don’t just want to be seen; they want to be seen as unlike anyone else.

Key qualities: Depth, authenticity, sensitivity, creativity.

Key fear: Having no identity or significance.

V The Observer (Type 5)

The Observer is quiet and perceptive, carefully taking in the world while keeping a protective distance.They move through life with restraint, preferring clarity over chaos, and thought over impulse. But as their confidence grows, their guardedness begins to soften. What was once internal becomes expressed—curiosity turns outward, energy flows more freely, and a deeper emotional world comes to light. Beneath the calm surface lies a rich, sensitive inner life, waiting to be shared when trust is found.

Key qualities: Clarity, curiosity, restraint, insight.

Key fear: Depletion, incompetence, intrusion.

VI The Loyalist (Type 6)

The Loyalist is deeply attuned to structure, stability, and the bonds that hold things together. Their inner world can feel complex and uncertain, but with someone—or something (in this case the cello) —they trust, they find strength. A steady anchor gives them the courage to move forward. As they learn to trust not only others but themselves, they begin to discover resilience in the very face of uncertainty.

Key qualities: Commitment, vigilance, courage, reliability.

Key fear: Being without support or guidance.

VII The Achiever (Type 3)

The Achiever is goal-oriented and dynamic, always aiming to succeed and be recognized. They adapt quickly, stay in motion, and often hide their deeper self behind achievement. But when they begin to let go of image and connect more honestly, something shifts—they find their true strength not in standing out, but in showing up as they are.

Key qualities: Drive, adaptability, focus, efficiency.

Key fear: Failure or being seen as worthless.

VIII The Idealist (Type 1)

The Idealist begins with a clear sense of what is right—a quiet inner harmony, shared purpose, and a deep wish for goodness. But that clarity soon gives way to longing: a desire not just for order, but for wholeness. Doubts arise—questioning what’s right, what’s enough, what still needs fixing. In time, the need to control softens. They begin to listen, to trust, to collaborate without judgment. No one leads, yet everything moves forward. From this shared space, energy builds—not from striving alone, but from connection and mutual effort. And when that longing returns, it comes not with tension, but with warmth, strength, and renewed clarity.

Key qualities: Integrity, responsibility, discipline, fairness.

Key fear: Being corrupt, bad, or wrong.

IX The Optimist (Type 7)

The Optimist is lively, curious, and full of energy—always looking for the next exciting experience. Their world is colorful and fast-moving, filled with ideas and possibilities. They find joy in variety and surprise. But beneath all that brightness lies a quieter space—a pause, a breath, a glimpse of something deeper. That moment of stillness transforms their playfulness into real joy—less scattered, more rooted, and truly free./p>

Key qualities: Enthusiasm, versatility, imagination, spontaneity.

Key fear: Being trapped in pain or deprivation.

X The Peacemaker (Type 9)

The Peacemaker seeks harmony and calm, avoiding conflict and keeping the peace. But when they awaken to their own desires and take a stand, their quiet presence transforms. What once was passive becomes powerful—clear, grounded, and full of life.

Key qualities: Calm, receptivity, harmony, steadiness.

Key fear: Loss of connection; fragmentation or conflict.

XI Epilogue

Jose Soares (PT) – sax

George Dumitriu (RO) – violin and guitar

Saartje Van Camp (B) – cello
Franz von Chossy (D) – piano, composition

Tijs Klaassen (NL) – bass

Jamie Peet (NL) – drums

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