A structure for an optical switch includes a reflective layer formed over a high quality epitaxial layer of piezoelectric compound semiconductor materials grown over a monocrystalline substrate, such as a silicon wafer. The piezoelectric layer can be activated to alter the path of light incident on the reflective layer. A compliant substrate is provided for growing the monocrystalline compound semiconductor layer. An accommodating buffer layer comprises a layer of monocrystalline oxide spaced apart from a silicon wafer by an amorphous interface layer of silicon oxide. The amorphous interface layer dissipates strain and permits the growth of a high quality monocrystalline oxide accommodating buffer layer. The accommodating buffer layer is lattice matched to both the underlying silicon wafer and the overlying piezoelectric monocrystalline material layer.