As found in the Oxford Music Online encyclopedia (only accessible through universities):
Corcoran has developed a distinct and complex language of aleatory macro-counterpoint
in which sound layers are superimposed polyphonically but retain independence through
distinctive polymetric, agogic and dynamic indications. This technique is evident from
the early Piano Trio (1978) to Ice Etchings no.1 and Mad Sweeney (both 1996). His
many cultural interests are reflected in the texts of his vocal works; the opera
Gilgamesh (1990), for example, is based on a Sumerian epic. The Irische Mikrokosmoi
for piano (1993) are based on traditional Irish melodies and rhythms.