embersoil

for satb (2024)

​

commissioned by WHIDDON AUTUMN FESTIVAL

​

Embersoil is inspired by Xintianyou, a traditional folk song style from northern Shaanxi, China, known for its flowing melodies and powerful vocals that reflect the vast Loess Plateau. The people of this region, often called "Children of the Yellow Earth," are renowned for their resilience and open-hearted spirit, shaped by their harsh, barren environment.

I wanted this piece to capture unyielding strength and optimistic spirituality, blending raw, heartfelt Xintianyou（信天游） energy with contemporary music. Embersoil is a tribute to the immortal spirit of my hometown.

 

The Whiddon Autumn Festival commissioned this piece as composer-in-residence 2024 and premiered it with Corvus Consort, conducted by Freddie Crowley.

​