About

“Duo” is a five-minute thrill ride for violin and viola. Although my aim was to create a piece of “absolute music”—music without a programmatic narrative—the composition does showcase a fusion of Eastern and Western musical elements. It explores contrasting traditions, blending technical precision with playful, expressive tunes inspired by Chinese folk songs. Throughout the piece, the violin and viola engage in a lively call-and-response, with each instrument taking turns to lead and follow. I’ve always loved the portability of the violin/viola duo—this ensemble truly can play anytime and anywhere. In that sense, consider this little piece a traveler’s musical companion.
©Zhou Tian