Modern Polyphonic Piano Miniatures Collection

Author: Lai Zhao Shi
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2002-09-01
Features: This "Modern Polyphonic Piano Miniatures Collection" was compiled by our three siblings from the works we created in the past two years. The book includes a total of 38 pieces. The technical principles behind these compositions are derived from "Twentieth-Century Polyphonic Music" (an academic monograph written by our mentor, Professor Yu Xian, after years of dedicated research, covering numerous modern polyphonic techniques). In these miniatures, various techniques such as monophonic-dimodal, monophonic-polymodal, dimodal, pan-tonal, and atonal; melodic half-tone scales, artificial synthetic scales, whole-tone scales; complex rhythms, non-rhythmic, and rhythmic themes are employed, achieving a "large capacity" within the "miniature" form. These compositions are based on folk songs, operas, and dance music from different regions and ethnic groups in our country. When these traditional melodies are combined with Western modern polyphonic techniques, the sonic effect of the works undergoes significant transformation, allowing us to experience freshness and wonder within familiar music. As piano pieces, these miniatures may spark more interest among young friends, as the imagery and artistic conception they depict are filled with playful and imaginative elements. To help performers better understand and interpret the works, we have added brief annotations at the end of each score. However, we still hope that performers can fully unleash their imagination, enriching each piece through their "secondary creation." Rather than marking the initial summary of our compositional techniques, the publication of this collection is more a reflection of Professor Yu's teaching and research achievements. We deeply feel that every achievement we have made in our studies is inseparable from the dedication and hard work of our teacher. While creative practice during study plays a positive role in understanding and mastering new knowledge, further learning through creative practice is the true path to acquiring new knowledge.