Programme Note

To me, the idea of musical “threads” or “lines” holds some profound significance. Whether it is the trajectory of music, the linearity of musical phrases, the integration of different orchestra parts into a cohesive flow, or the blend of different cultures into a new voice, all elements contribute to the music-making process. With that in mind, this work explores the multifaceted symbolism of “thread,” celebrating music-making within the concise framework of an orchestral prelude. Threads begins with a single “thread”—a simple 5-note motif. As the music progresses, it intertwines with numerous instruments in the orchestra, eventually expanding into multiple threads of orchestral voices.
©Zhou Tian