It is a rare treat to encounter a high-calibre Chinese orchestra in Sydney. A visual and sonic feast with the performers elegantly clad in simply-styled changshan (modern period robes), this concert included a collection of contrasting works written for the Chinese orchestra within the last 40 years.  

With a deep tam-tam roar, we are transported to the scene of a military homecoming in the well-known Song of the General. An ancient tune from the luogu (wind and drum) genre, this magnificently arranged composition is in Chinese operatic style. Strident and proud, the bombastic suona (double reed pipe) and percussion motifs channel the distant past through Peng Xiuwen’s arrangement in a performance that is fresh and revitalised with elements of traditional heterophony supplemented by intricate contrapuntal textures.  

A more contemporary exploration of counterpoint and modal harmonies may be found in Essence, the final movement of Ng Cheuk-yin’s prize-wining work, Ji. This tai chi-inspired movement begins with a yangqin solo which is gradually supported by the winds, bowed and plucked strings. The yangqin is a hammered dulcimer of Persian antecedence; its Chinese development included the use of...