Kira!
Available for 3-part treble, perc.
Duration: 03:23
Exclusively distributed by Graphite Publishing as part of the Tracy Wong Series. Purchase this piece HERE!
About the piece
Kira = count
This playful original composition for 3-part treble choir and percussion is a nod to Malay folksongs that merge counting/play (common in some childhood games) and sage advice. It also celebrates elders in my larger Malaysian community who impart life teachings to young people in a fun and accessible way. I am drawn to this tradition for its beauty in having music as form of inter-generational community building.
The work features word and vocal play merged with folkloric elements - quartal harmonies, dance-like rhythms, and shifting tonality - that are spun through a musically-contemporary lens. Besides counting-singing from one to eight in Malay, the text is based on a few well-known Malay proverbs.
I am grateful to the Colorado Children’s Chorale and Emily Crile (Artistic Director) for commissioning me to create this work for their Spring 2023 concert – Time to Shine. It was an honour to be in a week-long residence with the Chorale community and be a part of this meaningful celebration.
- Tracy Wong, January 2023
Connect with Tracy!
Tracy is happy to connect with choral educators, conductors, and choirs via email and online workshops to discuss the context of the piece, pronunciation, and performance style.
Learning Resources for “Kira!”
Learning tracks can be purchased HERE! Do contact Tracy if you would like her to workshop this piece with your choir!