Composer: Tianran LI
Conductor: Daye Lin
Performed by Shenzhen Symphony Orchestra 
July 24, 2019

This work is my reflection of the architectures and gardens in Canton, a province in southern China. Many local iconic elements are represented in this three-movement piano concerto. The first movement is a reminiscence of the stained glass window, a popular decoration with mosaic puzzles and exquisite patterns in traditional Canton buildings. When the sunlight shines through, the colorful shadows flow and change magically on the grey brick floors and walls. This vibrant image is reflected in the tones from the orchestra, as well as the texture of the piano solo. The themes of second and the third movement were inspired by the statues on the roof of the Cantonese traditional buildings. Per the local traditions, statues are not only for decoration, they will also bless the wellbeing of the residents. However, not all statues are related to deities with transcended power, some are just from secular life, such as household animals and birds. These different characters are contrasted in the second and third movement. The second movement is slow and static, depicting the austere and somber legendary figures. The third movement is more vivid and vibrant, for the statues of secular beings, as well as an illustration of the happy rural life in Cantonese villages.

Tianran Li