Roydon Tse

Dr. Roydon Tse (b.1991) is an award-winning Canadian-Chinese composer and educator.  He is passionate about communicating to audiences from all backgrounds and his works for orchestra, chamber and vocal forces are inspired by the fusion of Eastern and Western elements, the visual arts and the environment.  Born in Hong Kong, Roydon studied piano and violin in the U.K. and earned composition degrees from the University of British Columbia (B.Mus) and the University of Toronto (M.Mus, D.M.A). 

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Website: roydontse.com

Glorify! - Vanguard Premieres Contest 2012 (Winner - Emerging Composers Category)

Glorify! (2011) is a radiant and energetic piece set to the words of King David in his legendary Psalm 34, employing SATB Chorus, Brass Quintet, and Piano. The Psalms have been a favourite inspiration for many choral works since the translation of the Bible, and I find them to be a constant inspiration for life and celebration. I took words from the first three verses and wrote three distinct sections of music for them, each different in texture and rhythm. The main subject is set to verse 3: “Glorify the Lord with me; let us exalt his name together.” The rhythmic quality of the word “Glorify” led me to set this section in a 3/4 and 3/8 alternating meter, emphasizing the title of the piece. The second verse is slightly more sober but nonetheless energetic: “My soul will boast in the Lord; let the afflicted hear and rejoice.” A motif introduced in the lower brass and piano sets the tone for this darker middle phrase, and alternates with the choir singing in unison. This is followed by a quieter middle section setting the first verse, with the choir singing a new subject with staggered entrances. The piece climaxes as the full ensemble arrives at a held G major chord, which anticipates the ultimate appearance of the theme. (Notes by the composer, 2012)