Compassion
of the Buddhist (soprano, violin, flute, percussion), 2014 [2'46"] This song describes the incredible journey of Master Monk Hsuan-Tsang (AD 602-664) of the Tang Dynasty. His compassion for salvation strengthened his determination to persevere. Overcoming hardship of the long journey, he retrieved Buddhist scriptures from India and authenticated buddhism in China. The voice range is suitable for either soprano or tenor. The accompaniment consists of a violin, a flute, four percussion instruments, and chorus. Percussions symbolize the firm footsteps of the journey. Violin and flute further depict the 14-year-long journey to faraway lands. Chorus represents the challenging endeavor and the adherence to Buddha Dharma. Piano provides a construct that symbolizes natural progression, causality, and samsara. Some techniques of the minimalism are used. Ostinato figures support a slow but surely progression, which gradually evolves and develops. It's like a tortuous trip over the hills and mountains, reaching seemingly dead ends, but always finding a new path just around the corner. It's also like the chanting of monks, teaching Dharma relentlessly, providing salvation for all, and promoting Buddhism widely. The lyrics written by Ven. Master Tsung Tzu Shih are as follows: It's my determination, to authenticate Buddhism in China.
This piece was first released on Youtube on May 14, 2014, performed by Man-Fei Liao (soprano), recorded and synthesized by Shu-Feng Tsai. |