A JASMINE TREE

ABOUT THE PIECE

My first experiences falling in love with music were Thai temples and Thai street music. And when I came to the United States, I equally fell in love with American-influenced film scores, band pieces, and jazz charts.

When I joined band in the 6th grade, I struggled to find music that authentically supported my Thai/Asian background. I desperately wanted to play a piece that authentically represented my early childhood growing up in Thailand.

Similar to my wind ensemble piece Rising Light, A Jasmine Tree is inspired by the bi-cultural identity I grew up with, seeking to combine both Thai and American cultures as one.

The piece pulls melodic material from Thai/Asian styled phrasing blossoming over American-influenced jazz harmony. The beginning of the piece utilizes these melodies in a traditional contrapuntal style, where instruments slowly enter, similar to a meditation. As the piece progresses, the harmony supports the pentatonic melodies. I wanted to show my interpretation of the Asian-American musical style, as one. 

I hope A Jasmine Tree gives a voice of representation, while also inspiring and educating up and coming musicians in the beautiful meshing of culture, through music.

Kevin Charoensri

July 2024