Composed for and commissioned by the Melbourne Chamber Orchestra for the opening of their 2024 Season, 'Music Speaks', Glacial Thunder is an 8-minute contemporary work designed for advanced and professional string orchestras.

This piece explores the nuances of resonance in regards to communication. Through playful gestures and moments of profound 'ensemble stillness', the work illuminates the interaction between musicians and the composer-orchestra-audience dynamic without relying on a specific narrative.

Dedicated to Heather Rowell on the occasion of her 80th birthday, Glacial Thunder has been praised for its electric energy and textural depth. Limelight Magazine (March 1, 2024) described it as 'Striking, gestural, and crunchy at times... demonstrating Abbott's skill in being able to challenge both performer and listener without straying into esotericism.'