Premieres Friday, May 3 at 9 p.m. on PBS (check local listings), pbs.org/gperf and the PBS app
For the first time in his life, Yoo sets out on a journey to compose a piece of music. Deciding on a chamber quartet but unsure of how to begin writing, he consults with other composers like Stuart Goodyear, who channels his Trinidadian roots, along with bassist and pianist Susan Cahill, and plays familiar music to uncover his own musical style. Yoo decides to search for inspiration from his Japanese heritage, and notebook in hand, he travels to Japan to try new activities like the martial art of aikido, meditation, and visiting an interactive arts exhibit to stave off writer’s block and invite inspiration. Finally, Yoo presents the work in progress.
Places visited: California, Japan, New York City, Chicago