China

A selection of classics for erhu (Chinese two string fiddle) and piano

In China the erhu is recognised for its melancholic, soulful quality. Most other Chinese instruments are plucked, blown or beaten, making the bowed string family (of which the erhu is the principal member) occupy a special place in Chinese music.

The erhu is excellently suited to western baroque tunes, to Spanish folksongs & tango and to a range of popular melodic styles

Moon Over The Erquan by CMC Music

Yin Yang Collective addresses the burgeoning cultural importance of China in the world developing a relationship between two expert groups, one Chinese, one western.

Yin Yang Collective promotes music-based programmes of exciting originality: dance, theatre, Shanghai cabaret and even live music for film. Rich in educational possibilities, the Collective loves to give interactive lectures and demonstrations.

The Yin Yang Collective maintains a two-way dialogue – between East and West and between traditional and modern. The members of both groups are expert in their own fields but acknowledge the need for in-depth collaboration. The nature of Chinese music makes this particularly possible as the integration of styles is viable without compromising either tradition.

Inspired by China is London’s Chinese-western fusion festival.

The festival is a platform for East Asian inspired work conceived and presented by Yin Yang Collective, the UK’s Chinese-western band.

A melting pot of styles and cultures make up the festival – from exhibitions and workshops featuring Chinese instruments, to traditional Chinese music, to Chinese inspired western opera, and much more.

The first Festival day was in December 2008, where YYC presented new and traditional music from China, an exhibition of Chinese and medieval bowed strings and Chinese food.

Inspired by China is London’s Chinese-western multi-arts festival. It showcases work by Yin Yang Collective – London’s Chinese-western band.

The next Festival is projected for Spring 2012, and would feature:

• Live music for the 1934 Shanghai film Goddess
• The unveiling of YYC’s new China Suite
• Dance event featuring Chinese dance and Chopin preludes
• Mahler & Puccini in China
• Traditional Chinese music
• Workshops, games and food
• Savour exotic contemporary Chinese music in the atmosphere of a Shanghai Tea House !