A research and performance guide of the viola concerto Xian Shi

Author / Creator

Meng, Fanqin, 1986- author

Available as

Online

Physical

Summary

The viola concerto Xian Shi is an outstanding concerto composed by Chinese-American composer Chen Yi. Chen Yi enrolled as a student at the Central Conservatory of China where she began her composit...

The viola concerto Xian Shi is an outstanding concerto composed by Chinese-American composer Chen Yi. Chen Yi enrolled as a student at the Central Conservatory of China where she began her composition studies. Graduation in 1983, Chen Yi composed this viola concerto as her first major work as well as her graduation composition. In the same year, Liu Lizhou premiered the concerto with the China Film Orchestra under the direction of Guan-rong Yao. . Though relatively unknown in the United States for many years, the Viola Concerto "Xian Shi" has recently become a focus in both America and on the worldwide stage. The new interest in "Xian Shi" has positioned the concerto to become part of the major repertoire for viola. The concerto uses elements of ethnic Chinese music in a Western music form; This DMA project begins with an exploration of the historical background of Chen Yi's life and this influence on this viola concerto. The second section is provides an analysis of this concerto's form, general harmonic elements, and the use of traditional Chinese music elements (e.g., the musical notation, instrumental techniques needed for performance, and musical expressions within the composition itself). With explanations of specific Chinese elements used in this composition, insights from the interviews with the composer, and the first recorded performance of this work with piano and percussion, this document will provide violists outside of China with more resources to successfully study and perform this concerto.

Show More