In the mood for celebration
Jan 29, 2025
By Foong Pek Yee
foongpekyee@gmail.com
Concert pianist and teacher Lee Jae Phang says his musical arrangement this year unites the famous Gong Xi Gong Xi (Congratulations, Congratulations) with a variation on it and a new tune, both composed by him.
Combining his musical imagination and creativity , he succeeded in bringing out the month-long festive mood in the three-minute arrangement and piano recital.
The upbeat Gong Xi Gong Xi at one point takes on a hurried character that denotes frenzy festive shopping amidst decorations in malls and streets flowing with the colours of red, yellow and gold – a symbol of prosperity for the Chinese.
In keeping with the Year of the Snake theme, he says the new melody also coils around itself, recalling the music of the snake charmers of Asia.
Beneath the hustle and bustle, the happier feelings that comes with the new year celebrations saw the new tune kicks in half way into the arrangement.
“The new tune is lyrical and folklike with a lilting accompaniment that complements it in character,” says Lee Jae, of the celebrations which placed importance on family reunion, friendship and a thriving community.
An arrangement that befits an auspicious occasion, Lee Jae describes the final section:
“Gong Xi Gong Xi theme returns cautiously at first, and builds to a climax.
“Handfuls of chords create richer harmonies in the piano, a grand culmination of the variety of musical emotions that were explored in the piece.
” You will also hear Chinese drums in the bass rounding off this final section.”
Enjoy !
Happy Chinese New Year
