In April of 2024, the National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA) in Beijing, China, presented German composer Richard Wagner’s enduring and epic opera "The Flying Dutchman". The production received enormous acclaim from Chinese audiences for its spectacular stage design and masterful performances. In this special episode of Music Talks, we will talk with conductor of the performance Marcus Bosch, bass-baritone Ólafur Sigurdarson, and Ms. Wei Lanfen, Director of the Production Department of the NCPA. Let’s dive into the world of Wagner's timeless masterpiece "The Flying Dutchman ..read more

Jiangnan Silk and Bamboo music is a cherished folk instrumental tradition in southern China. From its ancient origins to its modern-day significance, this episode highlights the evolution of this musical heritage, and its role in contemporary society. There are insights from experts and performers, as well as captivating musical performances, shedding light on the cultural heritage, social functions, and improvisational essence that continue to define Jiangnan Silk and Bamboo music ..read more

The Sanxian is a traditional Chinese string instrument with a history spanning over 2,000 years. It belongs to the plucked lute family and is widely played in various genres of Chinese music, including traditional folk music, opera, and contemporary compositions. It holds a revered place in Chinese musical culture, embodying centuries of tradition ..read more

The Jizhong Sheng-guan Music, a traditional genre prevalent in the Jizhong Plain region of China has been playing an important role in the people's lives for centuries. Its instrumentation, performance styles, and historical background established its distinctive status in folk activities and ceremonies ..read more

The sound of Di, echoing through imperial courts and bustling marketplaces alike, has weaved melodies that transcended time and still resonate with collective memories of generations. The mellifluous tones of the Xiao, melting into the serene landscapes and through ancient pavilions, evoke a beauty that mirrors the soulful tranquility of traditional Chinese ink paintings ..read more

The Erhu, with only two strings, has the power to express a thousand emotions and a myriad of styles. From its origins as an accompaniment, the Erhu has evolved into a solo instrument, transitioning from folk traditions to the grand stages of classical music. Its versatile repertoire showcases remarkable singing qualities and narrative depth, playing a crucial role in preserving and transmitting the rich cultural heritage of Chinese music ..read more

The Bili is a Chinese double-reed wind instrument with a history dating back to ancient dynasties. Discover its distinctive mellow yet piercing timbre, exploring its unique cylindrical bore that sets it apart in the realm of traditional Chinese music. Join us on a musical odyssey as we unravel the cultural significance of the Bili, its role in various regional traditions, and the timeless stories embedded in its soulful echoes ..read more

The trapezoidal Yangqin is a Chinese hammered dulcimer, most likely derived from the Iranian Ssantur or the European Ddulcimer. After evolving for hundreds of years, now with its unmistakable timbre of bamboo and steel, it brings the impressive sound of a traditional Chinese instrument to modern musical works ..read more

The Spring Festival is commonly believed to be the most important among Chinese people. Out of all kinds of celebrations, music is the most indispensable. In this special edition of Music Talks, we appreciate several ensembles of traditional Chinese instrumental music that are popular and usually played during the Spring Festival, and learn about the stories behind the composition ..read more

The Suona is a traditional Chinese instrument that is played by blowing into a double-reed, through a mouth piece and then through the wooden body. Known for its extremely penetrating sound and distinctively northern flavor, the Chinese Suona is an instrument that has the ability to instinctively take the lead of all other instruments when played. Today, the Suona can refer to different kinds of trumpets that span across multiple registers ..read more