Striking a Chord

Album Description

Dive into the enchanting world of classical guitar with Xuefei Yang's "Striking a Chord," a captivating album released on November 25, 2022, under Warner Classics. This 27-track masterpiece showcases Yang's virtuosity and her unique arrangements, spanning a duration of 1 hour and 52 minutes. The album is a testament to Yang's artistic prowess, featuring a blend of timeless compositions and contemporary favorites.

At the heart of "Striking a Chord" are Xuefei Yang's masterful arrangements of Bach's works, including selections from "The Well-Tempered Clavier," the Violin Concertos, and the Orchestral Suite No. 3. These pieces, reimagined for guitar and string quartet, highlight Yang's ability to breathe new life into classical masterpieces. The album also includes iconic pieces like Rodrigo's "Concierto de Aranjuez," Albéniz's "España," and Tárrega's "Recuerdos de la Alhambra," each performed with exquisite precision and sensitivity.

Yang's arrangements are not limited to classical repertoire; she also includes modern compositions such as "Michelle" and "Anak," demonstrating her versatility and innovative approach to the guitar. The album features collaborations with renowned musicians, including the Elias String Quartet and the Orquestra Simfònica de Barcelona i Nacional de Catalunya, conducted by Eiji Oue.

"Striking a Chord" is a celebration of Xuefei Yang's artistry, offering a rich tapestry of musical experiences that will captivate both classical aficionados and casual listeners alike. Whether you're a fan of Bach, Rodrigo, or contemporary guitar music, this album promises an unforgettable listening experience.

November 25, 2022

A Warner Classics release, ℗ 2022 Parlophone Records Limited

About Xuefei Yang

Xuefei Yang is a renowned Chinese classical guitarist, celebrated globally for her extraordinary talent and captivating performances. Born in Peking in 1977, Yang began her musical journey at the age of seven, quickly mastering the guitar under the guidance of esteemed mentors. Her path to stardom was marked by resilience, having navigated the challenges of the post-Cultural Revolution era to study with Michael Lewin at the prestigious Royal Academy of Music in London. Yang's repertoire spans a wide range of styles, from the timeless beauty of Concierto de Aranjuez to contemporary compositions, showcasing her versatility and deep musicality. Her recordings, including notable works like "Heartstrings," "Colours of Brazil," and "Sketches," offer a rich tapestry of sounds that reflect her artistic evolution. Beyond her musical prowess, Yang is also known for her cultural initiatives, such as "X Culture," which celebrates the creative fusion of diverse musical traditions. Whether performing on stage or collaborating with other artists, Xuefei Yang continues to inspire audiences with her passion and artistry.