Programme Highlights
Xian Xinghai / Arr. Liu Wenjin: ‘Tiger Down the Mountain’ from Chinese Rhapsody
Xian Xinghai / Lyr. Tian Han / Orch. Phang Kok Jun: Song at Midnight
Xian Xinghai / Arr. Phoon Yew Tien: To the Rear Areas of Our Enemies
Xian Xinghai / Lyr. Guang Weiran / Orch. Yan Huichang: The Yellow River Cantata
Celebrating Xian Xinghai’s 120th anniversary, one of China’s most revered composers, we are pleased to present a concert honouring his enduring musical legacy. Known as ‘the People’s Composer’, Xian Xinghai’s music serves as a powerful voice for our country during times of national struggle and transformation. His compositions are not only masterful in form and technique, but also deeply infused with a spirit of patriotism, resilience, and hope.
At this special concert, the Macao Chinese Orchestra, with its signature blend of traditional Chinese instrumentation and symphonic grandeur, will bring to life some of Xian’s most iconic works. The Yellow River Cantata, Xian’s magnum opus, will take centre stage with its thunderous choruses and stirring melodies that capture the unyielding spirit of the Chinese people. To the Rear Areas of Our Enemies is a powerful reminder of the strength and unity that music can inspire. Song at Midnight and Tiger Down the Mountain highlight Xian’s innovative fusion of folk traditions and Western compositional techniques.
Conductor: Tsung Yeh
Zhou Zhengzhong, Baritone
Li Jingjing, Soprano
Liu Naiqi, Narrator
South China Normal University Choir
Macao Chinese Orchestra
Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, including one interval
Performed in Mandarin, with surtitles in Chinese and English
120th Anniversary of Xian Xinghai’s Birth River of Legacy