AsiaMei (pronounced ah-sya) is a Russian born Israeli currently residing in Northampton, MA via New York City and Boston.
Asia's compositions focus on the fusion of classical with elements of rock, jazz and world music. A graduate of Berklee College of Music, her body of work is as diverse as her influences - from choral, orchestral and chamber works to electronic and commercial.
Asia Mei is also a known alternative rock singer/songwriter with a new album introverse scheduled to release May 11, 2011.
Puppet Master
I'’ve never written for two cellos before. I found it to be an interesting combination of string quartet and piano. I am very inspired by the versatility of the instrument, and by its ability to sound both classical and hard rock. That ability fits very well with my composition style that always sets out to combine the two, and infuse classical sounds with modern syncopations, dynamics, sound and technique.
The quirky rhythm reminds me of a raggedy puppet in the hands of a mad handler that turns a dark corner. The title is also an homage to Metallica'’s “Master of Puppets” and its cello interpretation by Apocalyptica which served as a big influence on my writing.
Puppet Master will be premiered by 2VC on March 13, 2011 at 6th Street Sundays.