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Singapore, July 17, 2024 – The Singapore Chinese Orchestra (SCO) is excited to present two spectacular “Masters Series” concerts in August and November. These concerts will be conducted by esteemed Cultural Medallion recipients, Maestros Tsung Yeh and Yan Huichang. Each conductor will present a selection of works that reflect their unique artistic visions, exemplifying the exquisite charm and profound heritage of Chinese orchestral music.
Tsung Yeh and SCO
On 17 August 2024, 7.30pm at SCO Concert Hall, the series kicks off with “Tsung Yeh and the SCO”, under the baton of Conductor Emeritus Tsung Yeh, showcasing a curated selection of contemporary Chinese orchestral pieces. Featuring the acclaimed suona diva Liu Wenwen, the concert will premiere two pieces locally: Rhapsody – The Spirit of the Tunes by Jia Daqun from Shanghai, and Lang Sai by Taiwanese composer Lu Yun. Rhapsody – The Spirit of the Tunes masterfully blends Shaanxi opera music with modern sonata forms, highlighting the emotional intensity of Northwestern China’s folk customs through dynamic musical expressions. Lang Sai uses Taiwanese festival music to transform the vibrant energy of lion dancing into a compelling musical narrative across six scenes. Additionally, Kong Zhixuan’s Tone Poem of Wuxi will make its local debut, musically painting the scenic beauty and historical richness of Liangxi, incorporating contemporary musical techniques to portray the thriving modern spirit of Southern China.
Yan Huichang and SCO
On 23 November 2024, 7.30pm at SCO Concert Hall, “Yan Huichang and SCO” will be conducted by 2001 Cultural Medallion recipient Yan Huichang. The concert features the world premiere of his composition Charms of Hainan and Rhapsody of String Puppets, each infusing unique ethnic flavours. Charms of Hainan merges the vibrant folk music of Hainan, embodying the region’s lively spirit, while Rhapsody of String Puppets is inspired by the unique string puppetry from Shaanxi’s Hanyang County, blending traditional theatre with innovative orchestral techniques. The concert will also spotlight young artist Wang Kun from the Puppet Troupe of Shaanxi, who will bring to life the rich sounds of traditional instruments, like the Gubanhuai and Pixianhu, in Rhapsody of String Puppets. Furthermore, the concert will also see the first collaboration between SCO Sheng Principal Guo Changsuo and Yan Huichang as they present Kuan Nai-chung’s concerto Peacock on the 36-key sheng.
Mr Terence Ho, Executive Director of the SCO, shared: “These two ‘Masters Series’ concerts not only demonstrate the rich diversity and profound artistry of Chinese orchestral music but also reflect our commitment to inspire Singapore and the World with our music. We hope that these performances will deepen the appreciation and broaden the global reach of Chinese orchestral music.”
We warmly invite all music enthusiasts to join us for these sonic feasts, to experience the extraordinary interpretations of the masters and their collaboration with SCO.
