reed quintet | ca. 10
Program Note:
Pear Blossom Anemoia is a piece that delves into the complex emotions of anemoia—a longing for experiences and memories that one has never lived. The title draws from the pear blossom (Li Hua), traditionally symbolizing purity and innocent love. However, the dual meaning of "Li," which also signifies "farewell" and "tristesse," adds layers of bittersweet nostalgia to the work.
Structured in five distinct sections, this piece narrates a deeply personal journey, reflecting the melancholy of my old self and the poignant memories of a homeland left behind. As I have spent my entire young adulthood across the globe in the United States, this music embodies my anemoia for the years away from China, marked by a subtle undercurrent of FOMO on the life I might have known. Through the piece, I explore the intricate interplay of memory, identity, and longing. It is a cultural tribute to my roots and inheritance within the universal theme of seeking and longing.
Duration: 8 minutes
Recording: Recording available on YouTube
Score and Parts: Available for rental or purchase directly from the composer.
Performance History:
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World Premiere: Yangfan Xu: DMA Composition Recital, March 10, 2025 in Boston.