Encounters (2023)

for intercultural ensemble (6min)

Instrumentation:

Bansuri, sheng, tabla (1 player), rebana (1 player), oud, violin, double bass

Encounters is a small reflection on the heterogeneous nature of the ensemble it is written for and explores how culturally significant timbres and sounds may interact with each other. While difference is a clear subtext of such interaction, this piece is written with the belief that some form of common understanding or empathy can be built up, notwithstanding the inevitable tensions that remain in any attempt at cross-cultural bridge-building. Hence, the individual energies and personalities of the musicians are balanced with collective efforts to play together through different moments in the work.

This piece was written as part of the inaugural Straits Ensemble Fellowship and was premiered by The Straits Ensemble on 25 August 2023.

— Tan Tiag Yi

Please contact me for a perusal copy of the score.