Bright Sheng - Sheng: China Dreams / Nanking Nanking (LP)

Bright Sheng's 'Sheng: China Dreams / Nanking Nanking' is a poignant and evocative orchestral album, released on 13 March 2003 by Naxos. This classical masterpiece features the Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Samuel Wong, and showcases Sheng's unique blend of traditional Chinese elements and contemporary orchestral techniques.

The album is comprised of seven tracks, including the four-movement 'China Dreams', which takes the listener on a sonic journey through the landscapes and cultures of China. The work is a testament to Sheng's skill as a composer, with each movement evoking a distinct atmosphere and mood. The 'Two Poems from the Sung Dynasty' add a touch of elegance and refinement, with the pipa, a traditional Chinese instrument, taking centre stage.

The album's centrepiece, 'Nanking! Nanking! A Threnody for Orchestra and Pipa', is a powerful and moving tribute to the victims of the 1937 Japanese invasion of Nanking. This 26-minute concerto is a masterful exploration of the pipa's expressive qualities, and its juxtaposition with the full orchestra creates a sense of tension and drama.

Throughout the album, Sheng's music is characterised by its lyricism, nuance, and emotional depth. With 'Sheng: China Dreams / Nanking Nanking', Bright Sheng has created a work of lasting beauty and significance, one that will resonate with audiences and leave a lasting impression.