This piece is a representation of the five natural elements: wood, fire, earth, metal, and water. According to Chinese philosophy, each element or “phase” feeds into another, and one cannot exist without the other. The third movement, “Dampening”, represents the earth element and serves as a centering “palate cleanser” for the piece. With it being the only solo movement, it can either be performed as part of the full five movements or as a standalone work.
