Why do I compose? is an autoethnographic examination of this composer's compositional process. It interrogates that process in an intimate and highly personal manner with an unashamed focus on the impact life events have had on him and his family. It unpacks not only the compositional outcomes but considers how the works then impacted upon others - conductors, performers and those who experience the work as audience members or listeners to recordings. The submission includes a substantial folio of original compositions that range from works for young musicians to professionals. Included are the compositions themselves, with sketches/ manuscript scores and published editions/ as well as1 where possible, audio and video recordings. A detailed synopsis of each work is given which includes data such as the type of ensemble/ the duration, the date of the composition/ the commissioner (if a commissioned work)1 as well as outlining the context for the creation of the work/ the premiere/ and publication. These synopses also link to specific responses to the work from others and1 at times/ personal reflections from the composer.