Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra

When
14 March 2008

19:30

Where
Southbank Centre

Nearest Tube
Waterloo

Cost
£6.00-£35.00

Age Restrictions
n/a

Heading to the Southbank Centre as part of China in London, the Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra is sure to astound and delight music fans across the city.

Hitting London for the first time ever, the Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra premier will see various pieces of music performed live at the Southbank Centre's Royal Festival Hall. An 85 strong ensemble orchestra comprised of traditional Chinese musical instruments, their performance will see them perform both traditional and contemporary Chinese music.

The highlight of the performance is the Terracotta Warriors Fantastia which is based on the men who inspired the amazing statues currently on display in the British Museum. The soldiers who are behind the music by Peng Xiuwen are Emperor Qin's men who suffered from years of non stop conquest during which they longed to return home.

The Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra will also play pieces of music inspired by aspects of Chinese culture, including traditional feast days and Chinese caligraphy. Two types of Chinese lutes will have solos during the concert, and musicians and world music fans will be intrigued to see these fantastical looking instruments in action. The pipa is a five stringed fretted instrument that is plucked, while the sanxian is a three stringed fretless instrument that is also plucked.

Having been established over thirty years ago, the Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra is one of the foremost exponents of traditional Chinese music. On a global tour, they are performing at the Royal Festival Hall in a one off show as part of China in London 2008.

For more information on the Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra or to book tickets, click on the link below.

Southbank Centre Website

China in London

Terracotta Army at British Museum