The Wu Xing (pronounced wu-hsing) are the traditional Chinese five phases---Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water. "Wu" refers to the number 5 and "Xing" means phases. In Wu Xing the concept is more fluid, ever-changing, and more akin to phases. These five phases also have traditional pitch associations in Western solfege that produce a pentatonic scale and these corresponding harmonies. This work is in effect a Concertino for Two Percussion and Band. The number five is referred to throughout the idea of Wu Xing , and I have used it here in a variety of musical ways---five-measure phrases, five-note harmonies, a five-note melody, five-note rhythms, etc. The work features two solo percussionists playing a variety of sounds organized by instruments made of, or representing, metal, water, wood, fire, and earth. Winner of the 2016 College Band Director's National Association Young Band Composition Contest.
The Wu Xing (pronounced wu-hsing) are the traditional Chinese five phases---Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water. "Wu" refers to the number 5 and "Xing" means phases. In Wu Xing the concept is more fluid, ever-changing, and more akin to phases. These five phases also have traditional pitch associations in Western solfege that produce a pentatonic scale and these corresponding harmonies. This work is in effect a Concertino for Two Percussion and Band. The number five is referred to throughout the idea of Wu Xing , and I have used it here in a variety of musical ways---five-measure phrases, five-note harmonies, a five-note melody, five-note rhythms, etc. The work features two solo percussionists playing a variety of sounds organized by instruments made of, or representing, metal, water, wood, fire, and earth. Winner of the 2016 College Band Director's National Association Young Band Composition Contest.