CCM student wins grand prize in Percussive Arts Society Composition Contest

The composition is inspired by Taiwanese moon blocks, a traditional ritual that Wei experienced in her hometown. In this practice, two crescent-shaped wooden blocks are tossed to communicate with a deity, with each outcome carrying a different meaning. What was once a familiar part of daily life became the foundation for a new creative exploration.

“I became curious about what would happen if these moon blocks were not only symbolic, but also sound-producing instruments,” Wei said. “That question led me to explore the relationship between sound, physical gesture and chance.”

The piece was developed over several months, with a strong focus on experimentation and timbre.

“A large part of the process was dedicated to exploring new sounds,” Wei said. “I spent a significant amount of time experimenting with the timpani and different objects to discover unconventional timbres. For example, striking the triangle while moving the pedal up or down produces a particularly distinctive and evolving timbre. I also experimented with layering objects — such as placing an inverted suspended cymbal on the drumhead and adding small items like keys or paper clips on top — to create a wide range of subtle and complex textures.” 

These techniques created a broad palette of textures that shape the identity of the work. Another defining element of the composition is its performance structure. The piece is written for three performers sharing a single timpani, requiring a high level of coordination and sensitivity, which becomes an essential part of the musical structure.

“I have always been drawn to how much room there is for exploration in percussion,” Wei said. “There are always new sounds, new techniques and new ways of thinking about music.”

At CCM, Wei studies with Professors Russell Burge and Adam Groh. She earned her Bachelor of Music degree from the University of Taipei in 2022 and her Master of Music degree from CCM in 2024. As a performer, she has appeared as a concerto soloist with the CCM Wind Symphony and as a timpanist in 30 Years of Stephen Flaherty at Carnegie Hall. She has also performed with Taiwan’s National Symphony Orchestra. Wei has been recognized in national competitions, including as a finalist in the Frances Walton Competition and the Lowell Chamber Orchestra Concerto Competition.
 
Alongside her performance career, Wei is active in contemporary percussion composition. Her work reflects a continual search for new percussive colors and innovative approaches to sound production. She is committed to expanding the artistic possibilities of percussion through performance and collaboration.

Wei notes that CCM has helped deepen her perspective on music. “I’ve learned to think more independently about music — not just how to perform a piece, but why it exists and how I want to present it. The shift encouraged me to take more initiative in my work, especially in exploring new ideas and shaping my own artistic direction. It has also given me the space to experiment with sound and explore how cultural elements can become part of my artistic practice.”