Sunflower by Adam Tan

Sunflower echoes the imagery and floral nature of my previous work Lotus, giving the performer an opportunity to express colours and shades on the marimba in a neo-Romantic manner. The sunflower is a bright yellow flower that is often seen in warmer weatheramongst green grass, but can also be grown in harsh winter environments while still retaining its signature warm appearance.

As a representation of strength, positivity and happiness, Sunflower’s main theme (‘the Sunflower theme’) blossoms and builds up to a tremendous climax with powerful triplet chords, before its petals are broken down into a miniature, bare version of the original Sunflower theme. Sunflower finishes with a trickling run of diads, followed by a single high B – the sunflower’s petals falling to the ground and wilting away, so a new one can grow in its place.

Therefore, Sunflower is a reflection of being warm, bright and radiant, even in the toughest and coldest times. Every time I perform this, it reminds me to be grateful for everyone and everything I have around me.