Thinking of an Old Friend (Yi Gu Ren 憶故人) was played with North American Guqin Association's Guqin concert at Arcadia Public Library
Yi GuRen 憶故人 on Feb 3, 2024.
Thinking of an Old Friend, is a relatively recent composition. Although melodically simple, the tune is layered in complex meaning. It starts out with harmonics that set the mood before delving into the main section. This part begins abruptly, as if with a flutter of emotions that repeat themselves. The elasticity of the rhythm and mood suggests wandering thoughts; the repetitious phrasing allude to how one, day and night, recounts fond memories, seemingly so close like yesterday, yet so far in the distant past. Unisons and dissonant chords hint at togetherness and separateness. The ending brings out emotional heaviness, emphasized by the drawn-out deep tones. As in the opening, harmonics echo the wistful sentiments and bring the piece to a close.