Kok Jun PHANG: Breaking Dawn

Pipa: Conny WANG / Little Giant Chinese Chamber Orchestra / Chih-Sheng CHEN / National Recital Hall, Taipei, Taiwan 2019.5.10 (Taiwan premiere)

This work is with three parts: a tranquil beginning followed by a pulsating allegro that describes an impetuous scene. The adagio section highlights the elegant melody of the pipa. The soloist interacts with the ensemble, alternating between leading and supporting roles. Following the cadenza, the music returns to the original theme, moving towards the climax.

The word “breaking” in the title refers to the dance style that uses gestures and dance to tell stories. The pipa soloist leads with this dance-like performance to convey the composer’s artistic ideas.

(Translation: Anthony Ko / Edit: Patty Chan)