Ken Steven
Indonesia
Hailing from Medan, composer Ken Steven (b.1993) is known for his fusion of Indonesian colors and elements with modern techniques and harmonies. He received his undergraduate degree in church music from The Asian Institute for Liturgy and Music, Philippines, and completed his Master of Music degree from California Baptist University, USA.
Since returning to Indonesia, his creative activity and work have made important contributions to the development of choral music in Indonesia. His music is picking up and starting to make an impact on the international choral music scene.
Currently, he serves as the Director of Studies at SMK Methodist Charles Wesley Music Vocational School in Medan, North Sumatra, Indonesia. He is also the conductor of Medan Community Male Choir, founded in 2015, and has led the choir to achieve many international awards in choral festivals and competitions.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=49kLY3-YA7Y
HENTAKAN JIWA (The Beat of the Soul) is an exploration of sounds with human voices. The text is taken from the terminology used for various Malay traditional dance movements. Inspired by an Indonesian exotic Malay scale, the music depicts a modern staging of Malay traditional dance that translates into a vibrant sound experience through the various colors of vocal quality produced by the ensemble.
Performed by Batavia Madrigal Singers - Indonesia
Avip Priatna, conductor