B. Sheng: The Blazing Mirage

Album Description

Bright Sheng's captivating album, 'The Blazing Mirage', is a masterful blend of traditional Chinese instrumentation and contemporary orchestral arrangements. Released on 4 March 2014 by Naxos, this 59-minute album features the Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Bright Sheng himself, and showcases his unique compositional style.

The album comprises three distinctive pieces: 'The Song and Dance of Tears', 'Colors of Crimson', and the titular 'The Blazing Mirage'. The latter, inspired by the ancient Dunhuang Caves and their breathtaking Buddhist frescoes, is a work for violoncello and strings that premiered in 2012. 'Colors of Crimson' showcases the marimba, while 'The Song and Dance of Tears' incorporates the distinctive sounds of the pipa and the sheng, a traditional Chinese mouth organ.

With its rich textures and evocative soundscapes, 'The Blazing Mirage' is a testament to Bright Sheng's innovative approach to classical music. This album is a must-listen for fans of contemporary classical music and those interested in exploring the intersection of traditional Chinese culture and modern orchestral composition. Under Bright Sheng's expert guidance, the Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra brings his visionary works to life, resulting in an unforgettable listening experience.

4 mrt 2014

2014 Naxos

About Bright Sheng

Bright Sheng is a renowned Chinese-born American composer, pianist, and conductor celebrated for his innovative fusion of Western and Eastern musical traditions. With a distinguished career spanning decades, Sheng's compositions have been commissioned and performed by the world's leading orchestras, including the New York Philharmonic, London Symphony Orchestra, and Orchestre de Paris. His works, noted for their lyrical melodies and dramatic gestures, have earned him numerous accolades, including a MacArthur Fellowship and two Pulitzer Prize nominations.

Sheng's repertoire is diverse, encompassing operas, orchestral pieces, chamber music, and solo works. Notable compositions include "The Song of Majnun," "H'un (Lacerations)," and "Let Fly," his recent violin concerto. His music has been championed by esteemed musicians such as Yo-Yo Ma, Emanuel Ax, and Leonard Bernstein. Beyond his composing, Sheng is a dedicated educator, having taught at the University of Michigan and collaborated with the Silk Road Project. His contributions to the music world make him one of the most influential composers of our time.