Sheng: China Dreams / Nanking Nanking

Album Description

Bright Sheng's 'Sheng: China Dreams / Nanking Nanking' is a poignant and evocative orchestral album, released on 13 March 2003 by Naxos. This classical masterpiece features the Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Samuel Wong, and showcases Sheng's unique blend of traditional Chinese elements and contemporary orchestral techniques.

The album is comprised of seven tracks, including the four-movement 'China Dreams', which takes the listener on a sonic journey through the landscapes and cultures of China. The work is a testament to Sheng's skill as a composer, with each movement evoking a distinct atmosphere and mood. The 'Two Poems from the Sung Dynasty' add a touch of elegance and refinement, with the pipa, a traditional Chinese instrument, taking centre stage.

The album's centrepiece, 'Nanking! Nanking! A Threnody for Orchestra and Pipa', is a powerful and moving tribute to the victims of the 1937 Japanese invasion of Nanking. This 26-minute concerto is a masterful exploration of the pipa's expressive qualities, and its juxtaposition with the full orchestra creates a sense of tension and drama.

Throughout the album, Sheng's music is characterised by its lyricism, nuance, and emotional depth. With 'Sheng: China Dreams / Nanking Nanking', Bright Sheng has created a work of lasting beauty and significance, one that will resonate with audiences and leave a lasting impression.

March 13, 2003

2003 Naxos

About Bright Sheng

Bright Sheng is a renowned Chinese-born American composer, pianist, and conductor, celebrated for his profound and evocative musical compositions. Born in Shanghai on December 6, 1955, Sheng's journey began with his mother as his first piano teacher, igniting a lifelong passion for music. He moved to New York in 1982, where he has since made significant contributions to the classical music world.

Sheng's works are performed by major orchestras and esteemed musicians globally, including the Orchestre de Paris, the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra, and renowned soloists like Yo-Yo Ma and Emanuel Ax. His compositions, which often draw inspiration from his Chinese heritage, have earned him numerous accolades, including a MacArthur Fellowship in 2001 and two Pulitzer Prize nominations. Sheng's music is known for its rich melodic substance, sometimes likened to the "flying song" folk style from southern China.

Currently, Sheng holds the prestigious title of Leonard Bernstein Distinguished University Professor, continuing to inspire and educate the next generation of musicians. His stage, orchestral, chamber, and vocal works are performed regularly, showcasing his unique voice and deep musical insight.