The East Meets West Orchestral Concert is a colourful compilation of critically acclaimed classical works from the East and West. Audience members can look forward to an exciting line-up of classical Chinese music such as the ‘Butterfly Lovers’ Violin Concerto and the ‘Yellow River’ Piano Concerto amongst an additional collection of equally enchanting and iconic compositions, including traditional Chinese melodies ‘Jasmine Flowers’ (featured in Puccini’s Turandot) and ‘Hope Betrayed’ (known for its appearance in the 1987 TV serial Dream of the Red Chamber).
This spectacular line-up will be performed by the renowned Queensland and Adelaide Symphony Orchestras alongside emerging talent and Australian soloists in each city as part of the concert tour led by Australian-Chinese conductor Dane Lam (Brisbane) and revered music maestro Guy Noble (Canberra, Sydney and Adelaide) during the second half of 2022.
The ethereal yet haunting rendition of He Zhanho and Chen Gang’s ‘Butterfly Lovers’ Violin Concerto showcases a stunning synthesis of Eastern and Western sensibilities, juxtaposing traditional pentatonic melodies with harmonic undertones from the West. This internationally recognized concerto is based on an ancient Chinese legend recounting the unbreakable bond shared between two young lovers, often referred to as the Chinese equivalent of ‘Romeo and Juliet’.
The ‘Yellow River’ Piano Concerto is another expressive Chinese masterpiece that integrates the classical qualities and typical structure of post-romantic music with poignant themes of passion, beauty and strength. All of this is then paired with a series of technically advanced solos that will leave viewers entranced throughout the entire performance.
A rare opportunity to experience an Australian tribute to the eastern musical heritage, this will be an exceptional evening that must not be missed.
Brisbane QPAC Concert Hall, 7:30 pm, Wednesday 13 July 2022
Canberra ANU Llewellyn Hall, 7:30 pm, Saturday 30 July 2022
Sydney Opera House Concert Hall, 7:30 pm, Sunday 18 September 2022
Adelaide Town Hall, 7:30 pm, Thursday 17 November 2022