Night in a Place
Instrumentation
Large Ensemble
Flute,
Clarinet,
Bar. Saxophone,
Trumpet,
Timpani,
Violin,
Cello,
Doublebass
Premiered on June 27th, 2024, Vienna, Austria
Performed by Phace Ensemble
(Record is from the Premiere)
Night in a Place
2024
The concept of Night is a Place has been an idea I've long envisioned. It traces back to my first day in New York. I recall it was a sunny morning as I disembarked from the plane. Despite feeling overwhelmed about what lay ahead, I knew I have to do something.
On my first day in a foreign land, I endeavored to keep myself occupied. I tried to expend all my energy, but unfortunately, I failed. Anxiety enveloped me, persistently plaguing my thoughts until I caught a whiff of sunshine. That first night in New York, sleep eluded me, particularly after a flight spanning more than 35 hours. I lay on my bed, eagerly awaiting the sleep. Yet, I heard, felt, smelled, and saw.
During that time when I was lying on my bed, I listened carefully to all the sounds around me. I could easily recognize the ambulance sirens, the hum of the AC, the chatter from below, and most importantly, my own heartbeat. Now, I am tracing back to that slightly sleepless night with my musical tools, composing a piece that replicates those sounds I heard, adding a touch of imagination as well.
In that piece, Night in a Place, I ventured beyond my usual style and experience as a composer for the first time. This piece is a reflection of my memories. I selected certain chords and used various instruments and articulations to create the physical soundscape, aiming to recreate the scene I experienced. I was particularly satisfied with the part near the end where the entire ensemble mimics the sound of an AC running. By the way, the trumpet part that tries its best to imitate snoring—that's me
I envision writing a piece lasting around 7 minutes, divided into three parts to represent night, snoring and moving separately. The Trumpet serves as a people who is sleeping guiding the music, while other instruments embodies the essence of the night and delves into the depths of my emotions. I aim to explore the use of Air-sound, Flutter-tongue, Slap-tongue, Whistle-tone, Pizzicato, Col legno, and other percussive sounds to weave a diverse narrative that emerges from my mind.
I hope you enjoy in this piece!