
for piano and two percussionThe title of the work, Wu Ji, comes from ancient Chinese philosophy: "Wu" means "nothing" or "the lack of." "Ji" means "polarity" or "infinity," that which is beyond time and space; its presence precedes that of anything in the universe. (The percussion instruments required are: marimba, tam-tam, high blocks, Chinese opera gongs, wing gong, crotales, mark-tree, bow chime, vibraphone, blocks.)
This work investigates the philosophical concept of Wu Ji, or the primordial state of non-polarity, through the medium of contemporary musical composition. Composer Zhou Long utilizes the specific timbral qualities of piano and a diverse percussion ensemble to represent the void that precedes the existence of the universe. The composition serves as a sonic exploration of ancient Chinese metaphysical principles, translating abstract concepts of infinity and nothingness into a structured performance piece.
What You Will Find
Experts in contemporary classical music identify this piece as a significant contribution to the repertoire for percussion and piano. Performers frequently note the high level of technical precision required to balance the delicate resonance of the percussion instruments with the piano's percussive attack.
Page Count:
52
Publication Date:
2006-03-01
Publisher:
Oxford University Press
ISBN-10:
0193865653
ISBN-13:
9780193865655
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