Chen-Hsin Su's Classical Piano Works: States of Mind - Twelve Concert Études in Romantic Style

Humans are sentimental. We change the state of mind due to the ambience and atmosphere. The twelve études were inspired by the composer's life experiences, musical cultivation, glimpses of whim, and of course, states of mind.

When the composer initially composed each étude, he decided on the key, tempo, and theme, then proceeded to embellish the aspects of creativity and aesthetics, and finally devised the song title and its description. Although detailed descriptions are provided, performers are encouraged to interpret the études freely.

The twelve études represent different people with different states of mind. The compositions are meant to be unique, set in different keys and styles. They are as passionate as Chopin and Liszt, as untrammeled as Scriabin, and as exquisitely rational as Ravel. They are not in the rigorous musical styles of Beethoven or Bach; they, however, exhibit the form of fantasia.

The composer hoped to emulate the form of Chopin's études: well-composed length and repertoire that inspires performers' imaginations. In the repertoire, many of the compositions are to demonstrate piano skills; they challenge a performer's precision, finger strength, and extension. Performers are meant to perform the States of Mind in a way that is similar to presenting masterpieces from the romanticism genre.

States of Mind is the composer's first publication, including twelve études in twelve keys. In the near future, the composer hopes to complete the second publication that includes études in the rest of the other twelve keys.