Escaping Samsara refers to breaking the cycle of reincarnation and attaining enlightenment - an idea central to Buddhist thought, where the pursuit of knowledge and truth leads to a life freed from suffering. In exploring this sound world, I drew inspiration not only from the musicality and spiritual depth of composers such as Beethoven and Arvo Pärt, but also from East Asian voices like Ryuichi Sakamoto, whose work offered a contrasting perspective. The harmonic language reflects this blend of influences, containing sonorities that, for me, symbolise peace.

Although the title evokes a spiritual narrative, this work is not written in a filmic idiom; instead, it is a chamber piece for quintet. The tonal journey of the work mirrors the imperfect and unpredictable nature of personal change. Through fluid, seamless modulations, the music suggests that hardship can be navigated and ultimately resolved. Similarly, the intentionally sparing use of octave doubling - common in classical and neoclassical writing - allows each instrument to retain its own identity, ensuring the ensemble is used to its fullest expressive potential.

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Theme Park Suite attempts to depict the emotional journey of riding a theme park attraction, from initial fear to exhilaration and eventual confidence. It begins with clashing musical ideas representing inner conflict, using powerful low strings and anxious percussion to capture hesitation and panic. As the music develops, ascending horn and woodwind lines mirror the climb of the roller-coaster, while contrasting rhythms and dynamics evoke the unpredictability of the ride. The final section, “Soaring Through,” conveys joy and liberation through fuller orchestration and smooth melodic flow, symbolising overcoming fear through familiarity. The piece concludes triumphantly, reflecting both the thrill and emotional growth of the experience—making it an ideal accompaniment to a theme park advertisement.

Follow along with the score below!