Guizhou musicians bring East-West fusion to London stage
The concert, presented in two halves, opened with performances by Guizhou musicians showcasing household Chinese pieces such as Horse Racing, Jasmine Flower, and Blossoms on a Moonlit River in Spring, along with selections of traditional music from Miao and Dong ethnic groups.
The second half, led by European artists, featured well-known works, including the gentle and delicate melodies of La Traviata, the classic opera in three acts by Italian composer Giuseppe Verdi.
A highlight of the evening was the premiere of Guizhou Memories, an original composition by Italian composer Andrea Granitzio. Drawing on his visits to Guizhou, the work blended elements such as the Grand Song of the Dong ethnic group and the metallic percussive sounds inspired by Miao silverwork with Western musical structure.
British tenor Thomas Lidgley said the performance brought back cherished memories of his summer in Guizhou and once again moved him with the beauty of the region's ethnic music.
