Musician uses traditional flutes to merge classic and contemporary

Zheng Di, a young musician who plays different types of traditional Chinese flutes, performed at the Shanghai Conservatory of Music on May 27.

The performance showcased her playing techniques and research into Chinese flutes, such as the zhudi (the most common type traditionally made from bamboo), the bangdi (a type of Chinese flute characterized by its harder sound, often sharper or more forceful than the standard bamboo flute) and the gudi (an ancient and rare Chinese flute traditionally made from animal bones).

The concert presented a range of classical and contemporary pieces, both classic. Among them was Liangzhu Lament (Bone Song), composed by her grandfather Jiang Guoji for the bone flute. Zheng also presented an original composition, West Lake Dream, a beautiful melody expressing her longing for her hometown.

Her concert finale featured The Joyous Lantern Festival in Lin'an, which incorporated elements of Hangzhou's local tea-picking dance music. Zheng merged traditional Chinese music with modern sensibilities, showcasing her innovative approach. She collaborated with a piano and guzheng (traditional Chinese zither) to reinterpret classic melodies with a contemporary flair, breathing new life into old tunes.

Born in 2001 in Hangzhou, Zhejiang province, Zheng began playing the flute as a child. Her connection to the instrument began through her grandfather and first teacher, the renowned bamboo flute player Jiang. In 2017, Zheng entered the prestigious Shanghai Conservatory of Music's affiliated high school. Three years later, she advanced to the conservatory where she studied under Professor Tang Junqiao, a prominent contemporary bamboo flute artist.