Commissioned work for Esther Schopman
Before the Tide Surges” - Far from my Bed II
20 March 2025 Campus Beiaard(University of Twente), Enschede, NL
Electronic, carillon, samples, live performance
10 min
Before the Tide Surges is one of the pieces from the project Far from My Bed II by Esther Schopman, which offers an artistic perspective on the effects of conflict around the world. This composition reflects the ongoing tension between Taiwan and China.
A conflict can be ambiguous. It can hide under your daily life for several decades, giving you the impression that it is so far away. But what if it ever manifested? This piece invites listeners into the everyday life of Taiwan, merging sound samples, electronic synthesis, and carillon through ambient sounds of the vibrant urban atmosphere of Taiwan and the warmth of its people. Moreover, a phrase from the Taiwanese folksong Bāng Chhun-hong weaves through the piece, symbolizing Taiwan’s love, hope, and the spirit of freedom. However, if the conflict ever intensifies, evoking a sudden, poignant stillness...What becomes of the familiar sounds of daily life when they are interrupted?
Project by Esther Schopman
Composition/Electronics: Lena C.
Carillonist: Esther Schopman