Etude Argent

A composition for solo piano by Zhichang Lin

Developed through the 2025 Summer Composing Mentorship

Mentored by Soheil Shirangi

Piano:Qin Lan Zhang

Published by Zang Records in August 2026

Etude “Argent” is written under the guidance of Soheil Shirangi during his summer
mentorship Programme held in 2025. The composition can be approximately divided into
three distinguished sections, focusing on exploring gestures in different registers on the
piano. It begins with introducing a series of rapid notes at the extreme high register, with
different lengths of silence appearing subsequently. The initial idea for this opening
section is to create a sense of astonishment and unpredictability for the listener through
this highly energetic momentum, which is then gradually dissolved as the register is
lowered. Before the middle section, there is a long phrase using only the two core pitches
“B” and “E”, serving as a bridge for connecting to the next section where loads of chord
gestures are presented. These two large sections are designed to create huge musical
contraries. In the last section, similar materials in the first section are recalled at a much
lower register, hence to achieve a material unity within the whole piece.
The title “Argent” originates from my imagination of this piece’s main characteristics ——
glimmering, sharp, sometimes cold like silver. It is an Etude focusing on fast gestures,
which serve as the primary thematic material. The performer must navigate intricate
passagework with a light, yet incisive touch, ensuring that each note retains its distinct,
bell-like quality without becoming blurred by speed. The piece’s energy is briefly
suspended in a central, more introspective section, where the “coldness” of silver is
explored through a thinner texture and more ambiguous harmonies, offering a moment of
reflection.

Zhichang Lin (1999) is a Chinese composer whose work centres on the interplay between
material and structure in acoustic instrumental music. His compositions are characterised
by timbral exploration and a strong focus on shaping the listener’s perception of time and
form. Through the construction of expansive sonic landscapes, he explores how material
continuity, disruption, and transformation coexist within a unified musical world.
His music has been performed in the UK, US, China, and Canada, and he has collaborated
with Riot Ensemble, CHROMA Ensemble, Royal Academy of Music Manson Ensemble,
Royal Academy of Music Symphony Orchestra, and Core Ensemble