I recently attended a concert at the Royal Opera House Muscat, an experience that truly was unforgettable and soul-touching. Conducted by the renowned Lü Jia, the Artistic Director of Music and Music Director of the NCPA Orchestra, the evening, aptly titled ‘A Musical Night from China,’ transported the audience into a vibrant world of melodies and stories from the East.
The concert showcased an array of talent, featuring the NCPA Choir and the Teatro Lirico di Cagliari Orchestra, all led under Lü Jia’s masterful guidance. This particular programme was not only a celebration of Chinese music but also a rare opportunity for a multicultural audience to immerse themselves in the beauty of the oriental fused with Western traditions. We were introduced to the works of Zhao Jiping, an internationally acclaimed composer known for his collaborations with the celebrated filmmaker Zhang Yimou. His compositions reflect the intricate nuances of Chinese culture, making them a perfect choice for the concert.
The evening commenced with a breathtaking performance by the celebrated violinist Huang Mengla. Accompanied by the esteemed Teatro Lirico di Cagliari Orchestra, he delivered a stirring rendition of Zhao Jiping’s Violin Concerto No. 1. Huang’s interpretation was nothing short of mesmerizing, bringing the piece to life with his exceptional skill and emotional depth, setting the stage for a night of musical excellence.
Following Huang’s performance, the program transitioned to a beautiful selection of traditional Chinese folk and art songs. A talented trio of vocalists — baritone Liao Changyong, soprano Zhang Meigui, and bass Guan Zhijing — showcased their remarkable vocal talents. They covered songs such as “The Grasslands of My Father,” “The River of My Mother,” “When Will the Sophora Flowers Bloom,” and “Three Wishes of a Rose”, with emotion and heart in performances that were nothing short of captivating.
Under Lü Jia’s expert direction, the concert proved to be an exquisite fusion of Eastern and Western musical traditions. The NCPA Choir, which was one of the highlights of the evening, truly blew me away. As the evening unfolded,I found myself completely immersed, and later, almost melancholic as the final performance loomed, as it would soon be over. An invitation to explore and appreciate Chinese artistry and its cultural heritage, “A Musical Night from China” was more than a concert, a wonderful getaway into the beautiful world of the Orient.
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