Written for Xin Yi Chong. Premiered by Xin Yi Chong and James Koo at the University of Michigan Ann Arbor, MI, April 2025.

Percussion 1: 3 Tam-tams, 3 Gongs, Xylophone, Vibraphone, 2 Snare Drums (upside-down w/ snares on), 2 Tom Drums, 2 Bongos, 4 Suspended Cymbals, 2 China Cymbals, 1 Sizzle Cymbal, 5 Temple Blocks, 2 Wood Blocks

PROGRAM NOTE
As I began discovering and analyzing more abstract artwork from the early 20th century, one that stuck out the most was Jackson Pollock. His drip paintings, recognized as his signature style which involves the paint being applied to the canvas through means of dripping, flicking, and spilling rather than direct brush contact, remain a point of controversy. Though his techniques are very creative, the resulting product is quite grotesque (which I say with the upmost appreciation of his work). I realized while studying Pollock and other abstract artists and the perception of their artwork to the general public is the lack of emphasis the general public has on the process that governs their work. Their pieces are often displayed in galleries and museums without any insight into their practice which can easily leave a negative experience for the observer. splash, splatter, spill is conceptualized as a sonic realization of the artistic process - both mine and Pollock's. Many ideas are tested, experimented with, and slowly developed over a very long time. Many of the sounds of the work evoke characteristics of Pollock's work, emphasizing the ideas of dripping and falling, splatters, and motion. Though not a drip painting, this work and its set up are inspired by his work Portrait and a Dream.The two percussionists mirror one another In its conclusion, all of the material becomes layered quicker and quicker on top of one another until the final result resembles that of Pollock's work: A mangled cluster created with precise intent.

Duration: ca. 13 minutes

PERFORMANCES
Xin Yi Chong and James Koo at the University of Michigan Ann Arbor, MI, April 2024.

Live performance by Xin Yi Chong and James Koo at the University of Michigan Ann Arbor, MI, April 2024.