Programme Notes

    While live performances were severely impacted during the peak of the Covid-19 pandemic, digital performances blossomed. Digital Streams was commissioned in 2021 by Mr Mike Chiang for Ipseity, a project designated for digital presentation amidst Covid restrictions. The piece is filled with virtuosity and dynamism, portraying an exciting world of fast-evolving technology that promotes the continued flourishing of the arts.
    The metre is very regular – each phrase comprises four bars, each bar four beats, each beat 16 semiquavers, like bytes in a data stream. However, these semiquavers are grouped irregularly, such as in threes, fives, sixes or sevens. Moreover, different-numbered groups are layered upon each other, forming kaleidoscopic rhythms. This symbolises how digital technology, though logical and systematic, transmits a wide variety of artistic expression.