Experiencing identity, forming poetic space: Expression and interaction in a portfolio of original compositions

This doctoral research in composition focuses on representing and presenting the identity-forming process through a portfolio of musical compositions and its accompanying academic commentary. On the one hand, the Commentary serves to present a compositional process that involves sampling, reflecting, and updating my own identity. On the other hand, the Portfolio of Compositions represents creative outcomes from different stages of this dynamic process. The Portfolio consists of compositions for solo instrument (with or without electronics and visual components), solo vocalist with various mediums, small instrumental and vocal ensembles (up to six players, with or without electronics and interactive devices), and large ensemble (twelve players. After first introducing this research’s personal and theoretical background, this Commentary then addresses the portfolio compositions in detail. The essential concept of ‘identity sampling’ is discussed first on a case-by-case basis: how a sample, such as stereotypical pentatonicism, or tonal language inflections, has been reflected upon in my portfolio compositions. During the discussion, several important concepts that address different musical aspects are introduced, such as the ‘poetic space’ for the organisation of materials; language pheno- and geno-song for analysing vocal identity; and the ‘network of interaction’, which recognises the dynamic relationship shared by the composer, performer(s), audience and even non-human objects in a performing space. Finally, the commentary ends with a discussion of two concluding projects, the first being a ninety-minute concert that reflects on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the second being a large ensemble work that strives to achieve structural coherence in a more considerable length of time. In conclusion, the research reveals a process of experiencing identity rather than seeking a definite and fixed answer