Beijing witnessed a mesmerizing fusion of Eastern and Western cultures on Tuesday night with the special concert titled “Jiu Ge – Eros Athanatos”. This unique event offered a new interpretation of the classic work “Nine Songs” by ancient Chinese poet Qu Yuan, intertwined with the theme of Eros, the mythical Greek god of love.
The Guangzhou Symphony Orchestra, under the baton of its music director Huang Yi, delivered an enthralling performance of the two works “Jiu Ge” and “Eros Athanatos”. The concert beautifully blended traditional Chinese music with Western classical elements, captivating the audience with its innovative approach.
“Jiu Ge”, literally meaning “Nine Songs”, is a concerto for the erhu—a traditional Chinese two-stringed instrument—accompanied by an orchestra. Created especially for this year’s Beijing Music Festival, the piece spans approximately 50 minutes, setting a new precedent for erhu concertos in terms of length and complexity.
The collaboration between Eastern and Western musical traditions showcased in this concert highlights the universal language of music and its ability to bridge cultures. The audience was treated to a sonic journey that transcended time and geography, reflecting the dynamic and influential role of Asia in the global arts scene.
The successful melding of Chinese poetic heritage with Greek mythology not only offered a fresh perspective on familiar classics but also demonstrated the creative possibilities that arise when different cultural narratives intersect. This event marks a significant moment in the contemporary music landscape, inspiring both artists and audiences alike.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
