For My Uncle Tamang: A Musical Tribute of Love, Faith, and Eternity
Recently, my uncle Tamang passed into Heaven.
As with many moments of loss, words often feel insufficient to express the depth of love, gratitude, sorrow, hope, and remembrance that live in the heart. For me, composing became a way to process those emotions — not simply to mourn, but to honor, reflect, and entrust.
This piece, For My Uncle Tamang, is a musical tribute written in his memory.
Translating Character into Sound
One of the great gifts of music is its ability to communicate what language often cannot. Melody, harmony, and color allow us to shape emotion, personality, and story in ways that transcend words.
The opening section of the piece is set in D major, chosen to reflect my uncle’s gentle spirit, warmth, and tender nature. There is a quiet clarity and openness in this key that felt appropriate for capturing his kindness and calm presence. The phrasing is intentionally lyrical and unhurried — allowing space for reflection rather than urgency.
As the piece unfolds, the music shifts into B major, representing his passing into Heaven. This harmonic transition is not meant to feel abrupt or dramatic, but luminous — a sense of light, peace, and release. It carries a sense of transcendence rather than loss.
The piece concludes on an unexpected A♭ major chord, a sonority often associated symbolically with eternity and timelessness. Ending this way avoids closure in the traditional sense and instead gestures toward something beyond finality — a reminder that life in Christ does not end, but continues.
Composing as Prayer and Reflection
Composing can be a powerful spiritual and emotional outlet. It allows us to articulate thoughts, prayers, grief, gratitude, and hope in ways that words sometimes fail to hold.
For me, this piece became both remembrance and prayer — a way of honoring my uncle’s life while anchoring my heart in the promise of eternal life.
Scripture reminds us:
“For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.” — John 3:16
This promise frames the spirit of this music. While grief is real and love remains tender, hope is stronger still.
Why Music Matters in Moments Like This
Music allows us to grieve honestly while holding hope simultaneously. It gives shape to memory. It preserves love. It invites reflection. It reminds us that beauty can coexist with sorrow.
In composing this piece, I was reminded again why creative expression matters — not merely as artistic output, but as a deeply human and spiritual act.
Whether through composing, performing, listening, or prayer, we are invited to respond creatively to life’s most meaningful moments.
Listen to the Piece
You can listen to For My Uncle Tamang here:
👉 Click Here
If this piece resonates with you, I hope it offers a moment of peace, remembrance, and quiet hope.