I So Liked Spring (2021)

for soprano and piano (2min)

In my interpretation of Mew’s poem, the narrator begins the poem in a ruminating manner. He/she adds on to each repetition tentatively and poignantly - as though thinking aloud. This exposes a piercing bittersweetness that culminates in the last four lines. "This year's a different thing," the narrator pronounces. The song appears to end plainly enough, but the narrator's simple conclusion belies a knot of unresolved emotion. This piece was awarded First Prize at the 2021 Benslow Young Composers’ Competition (19-25 years category) and was premiered by soprano Sarah Leonard and pianist Stephen Gutman at Benslow Music, Hitchin, United Kingdom, on 10 August 2021.

— Tan Tiag Yi

Text

I so liked Spring last year

Because you were here;-

The thrushes too-

Because it was these you so liked to hear-

I so liked you.

This year's a different thing,-

I'll not think of you.

But I'll like the Spring because it is simply spring

As the thrushes do.

Please contact me for a copy of the score and a full performance recording.