Ancient instruments are symbolic cultural relics, and people can get a glimpse of the culture and traditions behind their unique sounds. In this episode, Zhang Xuguang, a zither and bowed instrument performer with the China Broadcasting Performing Arts Troupe, join us to explore the captivating story behind the revival of the soulful sound of a seven-stringed zither whose melody has resonated across a millennium.

​Embark on a captivating journey with Gesang Norbu, who has been pursuing his passion for the Tibetan fiddle despite tough challenges and discouraging voices from his family. When he finally brought his instrument into the limelight, he returned to his hometown with a resolute commitment to spread his love of the fiddle among the younger generations.

A recent concert titled "The Song of Xianghe", meaning a harmonic blend, is considered a fusion of Eastern and Western culture. In this episode, we will delve into the collaboration, and find out why Chinese flutist Zhang Weiliang believes his instrument is able to represent the Chinese spirit and people, and discover how Chinese music speaks to French harpist Celine Goudour.

In April of 2024, the National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA) in Beijing, China, presented German composer Richard Wagner’s enduring and epic opera "The Flying Dutchman". The production received enormous acclaim from Chinese audiences for its spectacular stage design and masterful performances.

In this special episode of Music Talks, we will talk with conductor of the performance Marcus Bosch, bass-baritone Ólafur Sigurdarson, and Ms. Wei Lanfen, Director of the Production Department of the NCPA. Let’s dive into the world of Wagner's timeless masterpiece "The Flying Dutchman".

Jiangnan Silk and Bamboo music is a cherished folk instrumental tradition in southern China. From its ancient origins to its modern-day significance, this episode highlights the evolution of this musical heritage, and its role in contemporary society. There are insights from experts and performers, as well as captivating musical performances, shedding light on the cultural heritage, social functions, and improvisational essence that continue to define Jiangnan Silk and Bamboo music.

The traditional Chinese festival Qingming Festival is commemorated to honor and pay respects to ancestors. Flowers such as plum blossoms, peach blossoms, and peonies, which bloom during the Qingming Festival, carry profound cultural connotations. They serve as emotional symbols to express respect and nostalgia for deceased loved ones, while also symbolizing the vitality and hope of life.

The Sanxian is a traditional Chinese string instrument with a history spanning over 2,000 years. It belongs to the plucked lute family and is widely played in various genres of Chinese music, including traditional folk music, opera, and contemporary compositions. It holds a revered place in Chinese musical culture, embodying centuries of tradition.

The Jizhong Sheng-guan Music, a traditional genre prevalent in the Jizhong Plain region of China has been playing an important role in the people's lives for centuries. Its instrumentation, performance styles, and historical background established its distinctive status in folk activities and ceremonies.

The sound of Di, echoing through imperial courts and bustling marketplaces alike, has weaved melodies that transcended time and still resonate with collective memories of generations. The mellifluous tones of the Xiao, melting into the serene landscapes and through ancient pavilions, evoke a beauty that mirrors the soulful tranquility of traditional Chinese ink paintings.

The Erhu, with only two strings, has the power to express a thousand emotions and a myriad of styles. From its origins as an accompaniment, the Erhu has evolved into a solo instrument, transitioning from folk traditions to the grand stages of classical music. Its versatile repertoire showcases remarkable singing qualities and narrative depth, playing a crucial role in preserving and transmitting the rich cultural heritage of Chinese music.