Resonance of the Huqin

Meeting Hall· Adelaide · 2025

A program of new commissioned works by Seven South Australian composers

David Wei-Han Dai — erhu / Composer
Felix Wang — Zhonghu

Lester Wong- Gouhu

9 May 2025
presented by Silk Strings Ensemble

ABOUT THE PROJECT

Proudly funded by Arts South Australia, this concert showcases Silk Strings’ latest venture: a program of new works by South Australian composers Belinda Gehlert, Jakub Jankowski, Satomi Ohnishi, Hilary Kleinig, David Wei-Han Dai, Felix Wang, and Lester Wong.

Written for combinations of up to five musicians, including one to three huqin alongside a diverse range of instruments, these works explore themes of South Australian landscapes and soundscapes, Sinophone worlds, cultural memory, and global musical dialogues. Each composer brings a distinct musical perspective, contributing new approaches to the huqin and its place within contemporary Australian music.

By bringing these new compositions together with traditional Chinese repertoire, the concert creates a dialogue between tradition, contemporary practice, and diverse cultural perspectives. Together, the program reflects Silk Strings’ vision for future collaborations and its growing identity as an innovative Australian music ensemble.

WORKS

Silk Moon

Silk Moon features intervals of thirds, fourths, and fifths, capturing the raw simplicity and vibrant energy of folk music. Constant shifts in meter mirror the spinning motion of a dancer, while the melody leaps through a distinctive scale, adding a sense of playful movement. The music invites the imagination to wander: a traveler under the moonlight, dancing along the Silk Road, sharing in the joy of a magical evening.

WATCH

Silk Moon — Meeting Hall · Adelaide · 9 May 2022

CREDITS

Erhu & Composer — David Wei-Han Dai
Zhonghu — Feix Wang
Zhonghu — Lester Wong
Presented by — Silk Strings Ensemble