Big Tree
There are many big trees in my neighbourhood. Over the years, they have braved numerous storms, witnessed the many historic changes, and gone through the highs and the lows of Hong Kong, yet I can see that they are still growing strong and flourishing, a befitting image of the theme of this concert. I have therefore used ‘Big Tree’ as the title of my new work. At the inchoate stage of composition, the Artistic Director expressed his wish that I would write passages that would place individual musicians in the limelight. My final choices are the huqin, gehu, sanxian and suona leading in four movements – The Island, Lights, The Fire Dragon and Keeping Watch. Each movement is like a mini concerto allowing for a dashing bravura display of virtuosity. From a simple, modest opening to dazzling prosperity, the musical narrative continues to develop until it comes to a contemplative, hopeful close.
INSTRUMENTATION
Chinese orchestra
SOLO INSTRUMENT
Erhu, gehu, sanxian and suona and zhonghu
PREMIERE ARTISTS
The Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra, Zhang Chongxue, Tung Hiu Lo, Zhao Taisheng and Ma Wai Him
DURATION
20 minutes
YEAR COMPOSED
2017