Tan Rou Yee

My music reflects a dialogue between tradition and personal expression. Growing up in Penang, Malaysia, and studying the Erhu from a young age, I developed a deep sensitivity to the textures of Chinese traditional music while being immersed in the rich and diverse musical environment of my homeland. In my compositions, I focus on creating works that are idiomatic for traditional instruments while structured with clear narrative intent, allowing musical form to serve expressive and emotional purposes. My studies at the Shanghai Conservatory of Music have strengthened my understanding of harmony, form, and contemporary compositional techniques, enabling me to integrate composition with my experience as a performer. Through my work, I aim to create music that is expressive, engaging, and meaningful for performers, while resonating with audiences across different cultural contexts. I strive to combine a personal artistic voice with contemporary musical perspectives, producing works that are both distinctive and emotionally compelling.