composition
With over 30 years of experience performing old and new music, and an extensive knowledge of compositional styles and techniques in the history of western and Chinese music, it wasn’t until 2021 that I finally took up the courage to compose. Previously I have written my own cadenzas for cello concertos, as well as arranged many works for various instrumentations. The idea of creating something brand new gives me excitement I never had before.
With over 30 years of experience performing old and new music, and an extensive knowledge of compositional styles and techniques in the history of western and Chinese music, it wasn’t until 2021 that I finally took up the courage to compose. Previously I have written my own cadenzas for cello concertos, as well as arranged many works for various instrumentations. The idea of creating something brand new gives me excitement I never had before.
At this early stage of my composing journey, I would describe my style as influenced by classical, pop, film and animation music. Mostly tonal, lyricism is the main feature of my music, supported by frequent use of syncopations and polyrhythms. Approachable to the masses, audience will find my music fresh and familiar at the same time, and something raw speaks directly to them.
I love making arrangements for cello, solo or various sizes of cello ensemble, as well as other chamber settings such as string quartet.
Happy Meds (2021)
I took up my first project as a film composer in 2021, when I was asked to write music for a Cantonese short film called “Happy Meds” (喜藥). Based on a true story, the film follows five cancer patients at various stages of their diagnosis and their life. It tells how each of them tackles their unique set of challenges, and how they come together to form a fellowship to support other cancer patients and their families.
1. The Fellowship
Title track for the movie. It depicts the formation of the fellowship and the work they look forward to achieve.
(Yu Zhuang, vln; Alvin Wong, vc & pn)
2. Prayer
This track accompanies scenes when the main characters pray together for their life situations and for the work they want to do together.
(Yu Zhuang, vln; Alvin Wong, vc & pn)
3. Transition
This track is used for Fo-Wing’s preparation for his wedding.
(Yu Zhuang, vln; Alvin Wong, vc & pn)
4. Let’s Start Again
Shirley has just been diagnosed with Stage III cancer. On her road of recovery, her husband encouraged her not to give up, and that he will be by her side at all times when they start this new chapter of life.
(Alvin Wong, vc & pn)
5. Going On, Going Strong
This track follows how all five characters tackle the challenges of their sickness and how they overcame difficulties in their work, life and relationships.
(Yu Zhuang, vln; Alvin Wong, vc & pn)
6. With Hope We Go Forward
The themes from “Let’s Start Again” and “Going On, Going Strong” return with a new uplifting tone, leading with hope to the foundation of the fellowship. The light-hearted second half is prevailed by a free, forward-looking tune that brings us to a full ending.
(Yu Zhuang, vln; Alvin Wong, vc & pn)
Over the years, I made arrangements for cellos, string quartet, and various instrumentations.
Here is an example: “Time” from the movie Inception, composed by Hans Zimmer and arranged by me for the 2017 Melbourne Cello Festival Cello Orchestra.
Over the years, I made arrangements for cellos, string quartet, and various instrumentations.
Here is an example: “Time” from the movie Inception, composed by Hans Zimmer and arranged by me for the 2017 Melbourne Cello Festival Cello Orchestra.
