In conversation with CCOM composers
1. How would you describe your music to someone who is not familiar with it?
Poetic, delicate, filled with rich emotional expression and subtle drama.
2. What is your educational background and training in music composition?
Started studying composition at the high school department of Guangzhou Xinghai Conservatory of Music Affiliated Middle School, then pursued undergraduate education in composition at the Central Conservatory of Music in Beijing, and finally obtained a Ph.D. in composition from the University of Chicago in the United States.3. Why did you decide to become a composer?
A strong interest in the world of music, along with the guidance of destiny, led me to become a composer.4. Can you walk us through your process of composing a piece?
First, there's an emotional impact, then gradually it's realized in specific instruments, forms, and temporal dimensions. I spend a long time brewing the material development of the piece in my mind and emotionally, then it's about gradually recording the sounds in my mind, while continuously revising and perfecting the score until the final moment of submission.
5. What are your main sources of inspiration?
The main sources are literature and poetry, religion and philosophy, painting and music, as well as life insights.
6. In what ways has UE influenced your compositional process?
The main focus is on promoting and selling my works worldwide.
7. Who is your favorite composer or what is your favorite piece, and why?
In my understanding, there is no "most"; I prefer to discover the strengths of each composer and listen to and learn from them without bias.
8. What advice do you have for aspiring composers?
To create from the heart as much as possible.
9. In your opinion, what is the biggest challenge composers are facing today?
To create from the heart as much as possible.
10. What do you think one should know before becoming a composer?
No matter before or after, always maintain curiosity about this vast world.
11. What do you think audience members should know or understand?
There's no should or shouldn't, but the audience can attempt to actively listen and interpret.
12. What is the greatest pop song of all time?
Bohemian Rhapsody
13. What would be your dream venue and performers for a world premiere?
I'm currently looking forward to the Berliner Philharmoniker and violinist Hilary Hahn
14. Which do you prefer – working on piano or orchestral compositions?
Orchestral composition
15. Do you prefer composing on paper or digitally?
I use Sibelius Notation Software for scoring.
16. Coffee or tea?
Most of the time it's tea.