Chih-Hsuan LIU: Trapped Angel

Sheng: Ling Hsuan SHEN / Little Giant Chinese Chamber Orchestra, Tien-Ku Percussion Group / Chih-Sheng CHEN / National Concert Hall, Taipei, Taiwan 2016.08.28 / Video: Jacob Audio and Video Arts, Jacob Chang / Audio: Chao-Hui Wang.

[Inspired by the poem “Freedom” by Shihyun LIAO]

Everyone has dreams and ideals. Often in our lives, certain desires or fears make us lose sight of our goals. If one day, we can see how we relate to our surroundings clearly, we will be able to break through the external constraints, frustrations and fears, and achieve peace of mind.

The sheng’s ability to play polyphony and harmony is beyond the reach of ordinary Chinese musical instruments. In this piece of music, the composer uses a large number of counterpoints, chords, and clusters to fully express the characteristics of this instrument. It also allows the performer to demonstrate her skills and interpretation ability.

This work was commissioned by Beiyi Chenggong Alumni National Orchestra in 2013 and sponsored by the National Culture and Art Foundation.

(Translation: Calvin Chan / Edit: Patty Chan)