Falling Still
- Duration 9 minutes
- Instrumentation Cello and Piano
- Year Composed 2016
- Inspired by the essay of Katherine Min (1959-2019), "On being Humpty Dumpty"
- Commissioned by Michael Kannen
- Premiere Sylvia Adalman Chamber Series - Falling Still: An Evening of Music for Cello and Piano, inspired by the writings of Katherine Min. Michael Kannen, violoncello; Qing Jiang, piano; Katherine Min, author and reader. October 12, 2017 at Leith Symington Griswold Hall, Baltimore, MD
- Publisher ycArt Publishing, distributed by Subito Music Corporation
00:00 - Introduction and Readings by Katherine Min; 08:02 - Music
[Live at the Bucknell University] Cello, Piano, and Poetry @ Bucknell - October 15, 2017 at the Natalie Davis Rooke Recital Hall, Lewisburg, PA. A program co-sponsored by the Stadler Center for Poetry at Bucknell University.
Michael Kannen, violoncello; Qing Jiang, piano; Katherine Min, author and reader
Program Notes
Katherine Min’s essay, “On being Humpty Dumpty,” is a candid and powerful piece that delicately unveils a vivid emotional palette of anxiousness, fear, hope, and humor. As a composer, I found myself particularly drawn to the sounds and rhythmic patterns she crafted to convey those layers of emotion. To evoke similar feelings, I experimented with combining micro-musical elements like grace notes and harmonics. The occasional intense interplay between the cello and piano mirrors the turmoil I experienced while engaging with her essay. The title of my composition, “Falling Still,” is inspired by the fifth section of “Being Humpty Dumpty.” It is my hope that this musical piece adds another dimension to her exquisite narrative.
I am overjoyed that cellist Michael Kannen introduced me to Katherine’s writing, and I am profoundly thankful for the chance to create a musical work inspired by her essay.
Thank you, Katherine, for sharing your intimate and personal experiences. Immersing myself in your world while composing this piece was an unforgettable and deeply moving journey. I eagerly anticipate exploring more of your works in the future.
Ying-Chen Kao
