- Program Notes
- Me and My Shadows is a concerto for the Chinese Sheng with a contemporary ensemble. The Sheng, revered as one of China's oldest instruments, exudes a humble yet powerful aura, showcasing a bright, pure timbre that speaks of its rich heritage. In contrast, the ensemble is a fusion of flowing sounds, encompassing various gestures, pitches, and textures. Together, the Sheng and ensemble engage in an intimate dialogue, each unable to exist without the other's presence.
The ensemble, in its multifaceted role, responds to the Sheng by coloring, merging with, amplifying, and at times, contrasting its sounds. This intricate interplay between the two is more than just a musical conversation; it's a metaphor for the profound influence of cultural heritage on personal identity, as suggested by the concerto's title.
"Shadows" here symbolize our cultural backgrounds, which follow us like shadows, seamlessly integrating into our lives or presenting stark contrasts. The concerto navigates these interwoven relationships with sensitivity and depth, mirroring the composer's experiences straddling Eastern and Western musical influences.
This concerto is not merely a musical composition but a journey through the landscapes of cultural identity. It reflects the universal quest for understanding and expressing oneself in a world rich with diverse cultural influences, resonating deeply with the composer's artistic and musical synthesis journey.
- Performer Credits
- Sheng solo: Yang Zheng; SoundMap Ensemble; Conductor: Januibe Tejera
