For accordion & orchestra
Commissioned for accordionist Hanzhi Wang by Young Concert Artists and The St. Louis Symphony Orchestra
The accordion is a fascinating instrument with a rich history. After its invention in the 1820s, the instrument soon gained popularity around the world and became a vital part of many folk traditions, including European polka and klezmer music, Egyptian baladi, Brazilian baiao, Korean trot, and Kenyan mwomboko dance music. While other instruments were often reserved for the aristocracy, the accordion has always been associated with the common people due to its distinctive sound, volume, portability, and ability to act as both a melodic and accompanying instrument. Interestingly, the accordion has historically been used far less frequently in classical music spaces, and its concert repertoire is fairly limited compared to other instruments. Writing this concerto was an exciting opportunity to learn more about this amazing instrument and allow its unique sound world and extensive technical capability to enrich my own musical vocabulary.
I have always loved the accordion’s reedy timbre, particularly because it reminded me of the harmonium, a small hand-pumped reed organ often used in Indian music. From this association, I chose to loosely structure the first half of the concerto like an alap, patiently developing a short three-note motive and making room for silence. The accordion’s own resonance is echoed through the orchestra, using overlapping spectral microtonal harmonies to create a sonic blur. Following an expressive cadenza, the accordion showcases its rhythmic virtuosity in the second half of the piece.
I’m extremely grateful to soloist Hanzhi Wang for her guidance throughout writing this piece. Her musical virtuosity has deeply inspired me, and she is a wonderful ambassador for the instrument in our field. Many thanks to Young Concert Artists and St. Louis Symphony for believing in this commission and bringing this piece to life.
January 10th, 2025
St. Louis Symphony Orchestra concert: "Dvořák's New World"
Touhill Performing Arts Center, St. Louis, MO
January 11th, 2025
St. Louis Symphony Orchestra concert: "Dvořák's New World"
Touhill Performing Arts Center, St. Louis, MO
