iSing Silicon Valley

iSing Silicon Valley presents two iSing-commissioned works, from a performance at the Cathedral Basilica of St. Joseph (San Jose, CA) in May 2023: the world premiere of Lenggang Kangkung (2023), composer Tracy Wong’s setting of a traditional folk song from the Malay Archipelago, and Latvian composer Santa Ratniece’s work, Where the Insects Cry (2022), for treble voices and four cellos based on texts from Japanese writers.

iSing Silicon Valley presents two iSing-commissioned works recorded at a performance at the Cathedral Basilica of St. Joseph (San Jose, CA) in May 2023, featuring a musical journey to Asia.

Lenggang Kangkung is Tracy Wong’s rhythmic setting of a well-known folk song from the Malay archipelago featuring simple, catchy, and repetitive melodies. Folksongs from this region are usually lively and festive; they introduce new melodies and encourage children to sing freely. The lyrics often tell a story or bear advice intended for young people, although some are humorously written and are meant to entertain. Featuring choreography by Mohd Fairus bin Mohd Tauhid, Lenggang Kangkung tells the story of a person moving along in a carefree manner (lenggang), like water spinach (kangkung) swaying or dancing in the paddy field. The text speaks to the carefree nature of folks who work in the fields: Even though they have a simple life, they are proud of their work and are content with what they have.

Latvian composer Santa Ratniece’s work Where the Insects Cry was inspired by two of Japan’s most famous writers. Although Japanese Buddhist monk Ryōkan spent the majority of his life living in simplicity and solitude at the base of Mount Kugami, he became well-known during his lifetime for his Zen poems and calligraphy. Murasaki Shikibu is the author of The Tales of Genji, said to be the world’s first novel. Both writers describe the subtleties of nature and the passing of time. Santa uses extended vocal and cello techniques to create a fascinating, immersive soundscape.