Portfolio of compositions

Abstract

The compositions in this portfolio aim to synthesise aspects of contemporary Western classical composition with techniques from traditional Chinese classical music in a way unique to the composer. That aim generates a number of artistic and technical questions which require creative solutions. The portfolio of compositions addresses several of these issues, especially how to utilise selected performance techniques used in playing Chinese instruments such as qin, pipa and erhu on Western instruments such as the violin, cello and piano. The portfolio includes music for a variety of ensembles. All the music was composed in 2014-15. The works span several genres, from the piano trio Bamboo Groves to the orchestral piece Shadow, Additionally, the piano trio Bamboo Groves integrates some sounds from the natural world into the composed musical texture, so stones, tree branches and water are played by the instrumentalists. The unusual and highly characterful ensemble of nine cellos, Cellophonics, which is based in the University of Waikato Conservatorium of Music, inspired the composition of Sun Wukong, the story being drawn from the classic Chinese novel Journey to the West. The theatrical monodrama Lament of Mistress Xiang Lin requires two performers playing a prepared piano along with a soprano, and uses some electronic amplification.