Folk Reimagined: East in Symphony
This performance is a striking fusion of western and Chinese musical traditions. Colorful Guizhou Troupe is a cultural and performing Arts industry group that promotes and cultivates Chinese cultural practices globally. On this occasion the Guizhou Chinese Orchestra has been combined with The Australia Orchestra (an emerging ensemble based in Sydney). This results in a highly dramatic and epic concert performance of traditional and contemporary Chinese music.
The concert opened with a spectacular adaptation of the Yellow River Cantata for piano concerto featuring piano soloist Tamara-Anna Cislowska. This powerful and masterful music set the tone for the entire concert program as it continued with interpretations of a variety of Chinese musical themes. The incorporation of traditional Chinese instrumentalization created not only a unique sound but also a unique musical experience. The performance effectively and expertly blends Chinese folk traditions with Western symphonic grandeur.
Highlights included Suona soloist Zhang Qianyuan who conjured the presence of birds through a magnificent and playful execution of Hundred Birds Paying Homage to the Phoenix. Yang Shengdong provided a very spirited performance on the Leaf Flute. The splendour and colour of the traditional costumes and the shape and sound of the traditional instruments easily transported the audience to the natural surroundings and landscape that inspired the music. The concert also featured a Jinghu solo by Jiang Kemei. This music was more delicate and melodic and beautifully punctuated the very rich program.
This concert provided an extremely rare opportunity to indulge in evocative sounds where East meets West and folk meets symphony. This results in a majestic form of innovation and celebration as they come together.
Patricia Di Risio
Photographer: Mikala Wilbow
Subscribe to our E-Newsletter, buy our latest print edition or find a Performing Arts book at Book Nook.