Music of Shen Yun
Sounds of the East
The origins of Chinese music can be dated back to distant antiquity. Ancient Chinese instruments share a deep connection with Heaven and Earth. The delicate notes of the plucked pipa evoke a sense of celestial realms. The enchanting sound of the 4,000-year-old erhu mimics the human voice. Leading the melody amidst a full Western orchestra, they create a profound musical experience that resonates deep in the heart.
2019 Program Highlights
This year’s repertoire is a refreshingly diverse and fast-paced experience sure to delight both seasoned concertgoers and those new to classical
music. The performance features Shen Yun’s most celebrated original compositions along with timeless orchestral classics by Tchaikovsky, Smetana and Gounod.
SHEN YUN ORIGINAL WORKS
CLASSICAL FAVORITES
Tchaikovsky: Valse-Scherzo, Op. 34
Tchaikovsky’s Valse-Scherzo reigns among the most exhilarating and sparkling mainstays of the violin repertoire.
Smetana: Dance of the Comedians from The Bartered Bride
Smetana’s The Bartered Bride has been hailed as the first great Czech opera. The raucous, exuberant Dance of the Comedians heralds the arrival of a circus troupe in the third act of this popular folk comedy.
Gounod: Roméo et Juliette, Act IV, March
Stately and regal, this wedding march follows the ballet scene in Gounod’s acclaimed opera based on Shakespeare’s tragic romance.
Sample the Music
This year’s Shen Yun original works will be a surprise. Samples from last season:
The Creation (from the 2018 season)
This symphonic poem tells of humankind’s origins and longing for the Creator’s return.
Ancient Melody (from the 2018 season)
An instrument that dates back thousands of years, the erhu can both uniquely convey and evoke a wide range of emotions.
Tang Dynasty Training Ground (from the 2018 season)
This piece accompanies Emperor Taizong as he trains the mighty warriors of the Tang Dynasty.
Sarasate’s Carmen Fantasy, Op. 25 (from the 2018 season)
One of the most famous pieces for violin, Sarasate’s 1883 composition is known for its fantastic virtuosic acceleration.
Lofty Spirits on the Grasslands (from the 2018 season)
This vigorous piece that takes us straight to the boundless grasslands, home to the Mongolians.
Reviews
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“The music they’ve created is such an excellent combination of traditional melodies.”
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“Delightful... they blend the Chinese instruments so very well with the Western instruments.”
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“Really wonderful! I’d be interested in playing some of this music or trying some of it myself.”