An investigation of selected works by Chen Yi

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to examine Monologue (Impressions on The True Story of Ah Q and Feng, two works by the composer Chen Yi (b. 1953) with regard to four important elements in her music. These elements are eclecticism in pitch materials, numerically-based rhythmic and formal constructions, original approach to timbre, and original approach to texture. Chapter one consists of a brief biography of the composer, including a description of the compositional movement known as the New Wave. Chapter two summarizes several analytical approaches to Chen's music, with special attention to the method developed by Xin Guo, and her analysis of Chen's Woodwind Quintet. The analytical method of this study, which is similar to Guo's method, is then explained. Chapter three consists of an analysis of Monologue (Impressions on The True Story of Ah Q (1993) for solo clarinet. Chapter four consists of an analysis of Feng (1998) for wind quintet. In chapter five, these two works are compared to each other and to Woodwind Quintet (1987).