In the Wind, a Lonely Leaf was inspired by my ethnic Chinese roots and is expanded from a single pentatonic theme. The utilization of a single Chinese pentatonic theme is also a reflection of how our ethnic roots influence the unique voice of Singaporean music. The piece explores the relationship between ethnicity and music through the medium of classical music. I would like to express the importance of finding confidence in presenting ideas unique to our own roots. 

 

Throughout the piece, artificial harmonics and arpeggiated pizzicati are used to create timbral interest. The piece opens with short phrases which are punctuated by silence to create a sense of desolation before an increasing urgency in the presentation of the theme builds up to a highly physical middle section. The piece then recapitulates, ending on an airy trill in a high register.