Singapore, July 17, 2024 – The Singapore Chinese Orchestra (SCO) is excited to present two spectacular "Masters Series" concerts in August and November. These concerts will be conducted by esteemed Cultural Medallion recipients, Maestros Tsung Yeh and Yan Huichang. Each conductor will present a selection of works that reflect their unique artistic visions, exemplifying the exquisite charm and profound heritage of Chinese orchestral music.
Tsung Yeh and SCO
On 17 August 2024, 7.30pm at SCO Concert Hall, the series kicks off with "Tsung Yeh and the SCO", under the baton of Conductor Emeritus Tsung Yeh, showcasing a curated selection of contemporary Chinese orchestral pieces. Featuring the acclaimed suona diva Liu Wenwen, the concert will premiere two pieces locally: Rhapsody – The Spirit of the Tunes by Jia Daqun from Shanghai, and Lang Sai by Taiwanese composer Lu Yun. Rhapsody – The Spirit of the Tunes masterfully blends Shaanxi opera music with modern sonata forms, highlighting the emotional intensity of Northwestern China's folk customs through dynamic musical expressions. Lang Sai uses Taiwanese festival music to transform the vibrant energy of lion dancing into a compelling musical narrative across six scenes. Additionally, Kong Zhixuan's Tone Poem of Wuxi will make its local debut, musically painting the scenic beauty and historical richness of Liangxi, incorporating contemporary musical techniques to portray the thriving modern spirit of Southern China.
Yan Huichang and SCO
On 23 November 2024, 7.30pm at SCO Concert Hall, "Yan Huichang and SCO” will be conducted by 2001 Cultural Medallion recipient Yan Huichang. The concert features the world premiere of his composition Charms of Hainan and Rhapsody of String Puppets, each infusing unique ethnic flavours. Charms of Hainan merges the vibrant folk music of Hainan, embodying the region's lively spirit, while Rhapsody of String Puppets is inspired by the unique string puppetry from Shaanxi's Hanyang County, blending traditional theatre with innovative orchestral techniques. The concert will also spotlight young artist Wang Kun from the Puppet Troupe of Shaanxi, who will bring to life the rich sounds of traditional instruments, like the Gubanhuai and Pixianhu, in Rhapsody of String Puppets. Furthermore, the concert will also see the first collaboration between SCO Sheng Principal Guo Changsuo and Yan Huichang as they present Kuan Nai-chung's concerto Peacock on the 36-key sheng.
Mr Terence Ho, Executive Director of the SCO, shared: “These two 'Masters Series' concerts not only demonstrate the rich diversity and profound artistry of Chinese orchestral music but also reflect our commitment to inspire Singapore and the World with our music. We hope that these performances will deepen the appreciation and broaden the global reach of Chinese orchestral music.”
We warmly invite all music enthusiasts to join us for these sonic feasts, to experience the extraordinary interpretations of the masters and their collaboration with SCO.
Concert details:
Tsung Yeh and SCO
Date: 17 August 2024, Saturday
Time: 7:30pm
Venue: SCO concert hall
Ticket price: $20-$90 (not inclusive of SISTIC fee)
Ticket purchase link: https://bit.ly/3Vgny6y
Yan Huichang and SCO
Date: 23 November 2024, Saturday
Time: 7:30pm
Venue: SCO concert hall
Ticket price: $20-$90 (not inclusive of SISTIC fee)
Ticket purchase link: https://bit.ly/3yyA8Fk
About SCO
Singapore Chinese Orchestra (SCO) is Singapore’s only professional Chinese orchestra. Inaugurated in 1996, the orchestra made up of more than 80 musicians took on the twin role of preserving traditional arts and culture and establishing new frontiers through the incorporation of Nanyang music elements in its repertoire. SCO has impressed a broadening audience with its blockbuster presentations and is fast establishing itself among its counterparts around the world. Known for its high-performance standards and versatility, the SCO is recognized through invitations to perform at numerous prestigious events locally and internationally. In line with its vision to be a world-renowned people’s orchestra, SCO continues to inspire, educate and communicate through its music.
For more information, photographs, and interviews, please contact:
Media Contacts
June Teo
Head (Marketing Communications)
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Tel: 6557 4047
Liu Xiaoxuan
Senior Marketing Executive (Marketing Communications)
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Tel: 6557 4020
Annex A: “Tsung Yeh and SCO” Programme line-up
Annex B: “Yan Huichang and SCO” Programme line-up
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