In Passing
In Passing (2026)
for string quartet and vibraphone · ca. 7 minutes
Instrumentation: 2 Violins, Viola, Cello, Vibraphone
PROGRAM NOTE
When I’m composing in a Juilliard practice room, there is often a clock on the wall in front of me. I would watch it tick whenever I was stuck. It’s very steady, indifferent to whatever I was struggling with, yet strangely comforting — the clock keeps its time no matter what I think or feel. I get the same relief walking through a forest: the trail I follow isn't altered by my mood. These constant things become an anchor.
In Passing works similarly. Across its three sections, regardless of the tempo, there is always a stable, underlying rhythm beneath the shifting melodies, evolving textures, and harmonies.
PREMIERE & PERFORMERS
World Premiere: July 2, 2026 at the Yellow Barn Young Artists Program (Big Barn)
Performers: Alison Chung (violin), Norah Mix (violin), Neena Agrawal (viola), Yikai Guo (cello), Candy Guoer Pang (vibraphone)
Coached by: Raman Ramakrishnan
