My first audition pieces
Program Note: Reflections in Sound
In this collection of compositions, the composer presents a glimpse into his early artistic journey, marked by a diverse range of influences and creative experimentation. Designed as a showcase for his audition into the composition program, each piece offers a unique window into the composer’s evolving style and musical exploration.
The first piece, The School Bell, captures the composer’s nostalgia for collegiate life, symbolized by the familiar melody of lunchtime bells. Reflecting the hustle and bustle of campus activity, this composition serves as a testament to the composer’s reflection on mood and atmosphere through sound. With its intricate harmonies and rhythmic motifs, The School Bell sets the stage for an immersive sonic experience that resonates with personal significance.
Transitioning into Dance to the Moon, the listener is transported to the serene confines of a Japanese American Church, where the composer’s musical journey takes on a communal dimension. Originally conceived as a dance accompaniment for a Church friend, this piece embodies the spirit of collaboration and cultural celebration. Though unfinished, its melodic fragments and rhythmic interplay offer a glimpse into the composer’s creative process and collaborative spirit, setting the stage for further artistic exploration.
The final piece, E Romance in Egypt, delves into the realm of a diverse history of Egypt, drawing inspiration from conversations on geopolitics and religious philosophy. Infused with mystical allure and exotic tonalities, this composition embodies the composer’s fascination with history and mythology. Through haunting melodies and enigmatic harmonies, E Romance in Egypt invites the listener on a journey of discovery and contemplation, where past and present converge in a symphony of divine revelation. It also reflects a twisted romance with a devoted Egyptian Muslim. It’s very nice to engage in conversations where we disagree on certain matters yet find common faith in one God.
In essence, this collection of compositions serves as a testament to the composer’s creative vision and artistic potential. Through the prism of sound, they offer glimpses into a world of nostalgia, cultural diversity, and intellectual inquiry. As he embarks on his audition into the composition program, listeners are invited to join the composer on a transformative journey of exploration and discovery, guided by the timeless melodies and evocative harmonies that define their unique musical voice.
