Why does iTunes Match Pause on my Mini?

Here's the scenario. My library is in the cloud with iTunes Match. I have a Mini logged in to iTunes match and I'm controlling it with Remote on my iPhone. The mini is set up to run iTunes on boot. There is neither a keyboard or a monitor on the Mini.

When I access the Mini via Remote, I can see the library, select a song and, after a pause, it will play. Then it will sutter and stop - for a second, for a minute, for 10 minutes - then play again, etc. I have a strong WiFi signal. There is no reason it should act this way. Anyone seen this?

Thanks,

grgogo