Pergram

For a long time, traditional Western training has taught us to handle sound almost like structural bricks—meticulously architectural units piled atop one another, always leaning toward a final resolution. But every so often, a collaboration comes along that demands we temporarily set aside that rigid mindset and adopt an ontology of resonance deeply rooted in a more fluid, spiritual metaphysics.

This is the exact threshold where Towards Eternal Sky (2026) resides.

Commissioned by Silkwind Mundi—the forward-thinking duo of bassoonist Aaron Pergram and clarinetist/sheng specialist Alexander Strader—this fresh work by composer Chen-Hui Jen (任真慧) receives its showcase at the 55th Annual Conference of the International Double Reed Society, hosted by Aaron Pergram and Andrea Ridilla at Miami University in Oxford, Ohio.

Time + Color + Poetry

True to Jen’s distinct creative vision, the piece does not simply construct a musical narrative; it deconstructs the thick layers separating ancient, primal resonance from contemporary avant-garde innovation. Her writing integrates time, color, and poetry into an atmospheric space where the contemporary timbres of the bassoon interlace with the multi-phonic, reedy brilliance of the ancient sheng.

Behind the notes of Towards Eternal Sky is a complex cultural dialogue where physical performance technicality collides with a deeply personal, intellectual challenge. By bridging Western wind traditions with the deep heritage of Chinese metaphysics, the piece treats these instruments not merely as tools of sonic production, but as mirrors reflecting a deeper spiritual state.

The composer has authored an untitled poem to accompany this piece, which is inscribed on the score. It reads:

-The shoreless water will remember

-when the last grain of stardust falls,

-The shimmer of twilight

-and the trace of the Milky Way.

無岸的水面將記得

最後一粒星塵落下時

微光與銀河的模樣

For those attending the Annual Conference, this premiere represents a definitive highlight of cross-cultural storytelling—a moment where music transcends physical boundaries and the sky becomes a canvas for pure being. Experience this world premiere this evening, July 7, 2026, during the evening Gala Concert performance.

To explore the ensemble’s background, visit Silkwind Mundi. Discover the composer’s broader catalog at Chen-Hui Jen and view the complete festival program via IDRS 2026.