East Meets West in Chinese Repertoire: Chinese Musical Nationalism and Western Musical Influence of Butterfly Lovers Concerto

Butterfly Lovers Violin Concerto composed by Chen Gang/He Zhanhao has maintained its artistic charm since its conception in 1959, and it has become one of the most internationally renowned orchestral works in Chinese music history. The scope of this lecture-recital will focus on Butterfly Lovers Violin Concerto, which carefully incorporates Chinese musical techniques and aesthetics with Western orchestral instruments.

Also, the focus covers general ideas such as introducing Chinese orchestral repertoire with Chinese musical characteristics and background to readers and analyzing the Western influences in these works. Another issue is balancing Western influences with Chinese musical tradition to create new Chinese Orchestral works. In the lecture recital, Tianxi Wen will mainly discuss these topics and points from the perspective of ethnomusicology and score study as a conductor. Talented violinist Alex Dzyubinsky and Erhu Maestro Hong Wang have been specially invited to showcase their artistry as soloists during Tianxi Wen's lecture recital, offering distinct interpretations of the Butterfly Lovers Concerto (violin/erhu versions).

Parking:  Attendees are welcome to park in the Cottage Grove Parking Garage. Parking is free Fridays after 1 p.m.; all day Saturdays and Sundays; and after 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday. During these times, visitors may park in any staff, student or visitor space free of charge. Please observe handicapped/disabled, reserved, resident, and emergency parking restrictions at all times.