An extraordinary group of Chinese virtuosos from prestigious music backgrounds will perform a selection of romantic masterpieces. Dong Qui-Ming is one the top three flute players in Shanghai; Wang Wei-ping is an experienced and sought-after Pipa player; Zhu Shao-meng is the best known Zither players in the UK;  Zhou Jianyan, a talented dulcimer graduate from China’s Central Conservatory of Music, has been invited from Beijing; Chen Da-can has taught Erhu, Chinese violin, for half his life at the Shanghai Conservatoire of Music. Chinese instruments produce unique sounds and wonderful music. The variations of rhythm, beat, tone quality and embellishments are highly distinctive.

The concert presents a beautiful ensemble of traditional Chinese music. Some pieces are chosen for their demonstrations of technical skill and mastery, such as: Against Typhoon with zither, Horse Racing with Erhu and Birds Shading in the Trees with flute. The programme also offers haunting melodies like Jasmine, Colored Clouds Run After Moon, and international favourites played at celebrations all around the world. The concert will also feature national and international classical hits such as Reflection of the Moon in the Pond, which topped the classical music charts in the USA and Germany.

The concert also introduces some of China’s most ancient music. These ancient compositions were often accompanied by idioms or poetry: Lofty Mountain and Running Water, dated from 475-221 BC, is based on a story about great friendship. The term ‘Lofty Mountain and Running Water’ has entered the language as a Chinese idiom meaning to seek congenial friends. Yang-guan Faraway, dated from the Tang Dynasty (618-907AD), was inspired by Wang Wei’s poem describing his deep sorrow at seeing his good friend leaving their hometown. The popular line goes: 劝君更进一杯酒，西出阳关无故人 ‘ Have another drink, my dear friend, you will see no more familiar faces  after departing Yang-guan inn.’