Pioneer of the New Land at Sea

with Piano

"Pioneer of the New Land at Sea" is a euphonium solo inspired by the renowned poet Bai Di's poem Compass. The poem portrays Taiwan’s journey from a state of isolation to establishing its place in the world.

The piece opens with a solemn piano prelude in grave, reflecting the poem’s depiction of loneliness amidst the vast universe. The euphonium then pierces through the silence with expressive, undulating phrases, symbolizing how Taiwan—like an arrow shot from a bow, as described in the poem—presses forward relentlessly. Despite the sorrow and solitude, it sails on with the spirit of a pioneer.

The andante and allegro sections feature piano accompaniment that evokes environmental hardships—like tempests at sea, meteors in the dark, and drunken, raging waves. The euphonium represents our steady strength and unyielding will to take the helm and sail onward, battling nature itself. Eventually, after braving the storm, we finally glimpse the light.