commissioned by Korean National Symphony Orchestra

This composition, titled "The Whale," delves into the profound issues of climate change and environmental problems, which have become the most significant challenges for the current generation of humanity due to human activities and selfishness. As I began to deeply contemplate these issues, I embarked on a sonic exploration centered around the theme of the suffering of nature's creatures at the hands of humans. 

In "The Whale," the sounds of whales are depicted in both physical forms and abstract interpretations based on personal imagination. Throughout the composition, the whale sounds are expressed in a multidimensional manner, adapting to various musical contexts. The sonic characteristics and changes in coloration within different sections offer varied perspectives on the sounds of whales. 

In the early sections, within a meditative musical concept, the composition seeks to present the diverse sounds and emotions of whales. In the middle to later sections, the piece aims to portray the whales' suffering due to the overwhelming presence of plastic pollution. Ultimately, the composition gently concludes while hinting at the souls of deceased whales and the hope for the future. 

The Whale (2023, rev. 2024) for orchestra

Younje Cho