Urban Pulse

Pulse moves between irregular and steady metric patterns, creating a constant play of tension and release. Shifting groupings and subtle metric instability cause the sense of time to stretch and contract—sometimes driving forward with clear momentum, and at other moments hesitating through fragmentation and pause-like gestures. A half-step motive (such as F♯–G) acts as the primary harmonic cell, shaping directional motion throughout the piece. This semitone relationship is frequently prolonged, delayed, or displaced across registers, creating a sense of unresolved pull. At key moments, the motive resolves clearly, offering brief but focused harmonic arrival points. Through the interaction of unstable pulse structures and persistent semitone tension, Pulse traces a continuous process of becoming—an unfolding energy that resists stability while continually searching for momentary resolution. Commissioned by Trio Hana. World premiere at ClarinetFest 2026, Incheon (July 11, 2026), performed by Trio Hana (Amelia Smith, clarinet; Deanna Pyeon-Govind, flute; Matthew Harikian, piano).