subTERRA tells the story of a miner who miraculously survives the collapse of a mine shaft. The work consists of five movements:
1. The Dream: A horrible nightmare plagues the miner. Dissonances and unusual sounds foreshadow the imminent disaster.
2. The Work: The rhythmic second part describes the daily grind of a miner, from driving into the mine shaft to working deep underground.
3. The Accident: Suddenly a piercing alarm is heard. Everyone tries to escape the mine amidst the ensuing chaos as the mine shaft collapses, trapping the unfortunate miner.
4. Hope: Buried under rubble and debris, the miner regains consciousness. A prayer can be heard.
5. The Rescue: A powerful maestoso symbolizes the successful rescue and survival of the trapped miner.