(Students from China Conservatory of Music at the ‘Fragrance of Chinese Music’ concernt in Kuala Lumpur. — Photos: SHAARI CHEMAT/The Star
USING music to bring people of diverse backgrounds together, a group of students put on a concert performance to help foster better ties between two countries.
Students from China Conservatory of Music in Beijing sought to boost Malaysia-China relations through its “Fragrance of Chinese Music” concert at UCSI University in Taman Connaught, Kuala Lumpur.
They also pledged to promote traditional Chinese musical instruments and melodies to music enthusiasts in Malaysia.
Li Beicheng, who plays a liuqin (Chinese mandolin), said music allowed the expression of emotions without inhibition.
Yin during her dizi solo of ‘Elegant Orchid in Spring’.
“Traditional Chinese music also conveys a lovely meaning that can be a shared cultural symbol.
“I think this performance is a chance for us to break through the language barrier to enhance the relationship between Malaysia and China.
“I hope more Malaysian students can consider studying in China for more cultural exchanges,” he said at the event.
The concert saw 13 performers showcase 10 classic compositions such as Dance of the Golden Snake, Elegant Orchid in Spring and Blooming Flowery and Full Moon.
Another student Yin Xi, who performed a dizi (Chinese transverse flute) solo of Elegant Orchid in Spring, wished to communicate with local music enthusiasts through her performance.
“I hope Malaysia and China can have more musical events like this to strengthen our relationship,” she said.
Li playing the liuqin.
Present at the event were UCSI University Institute of Music director Dr P’ng Tean Hwa, China Conservatory of Music party committee secretary Wang Xudong and UCSI University vice-chancellor and president Prof Datuk Dr Siti Hamisah Tapsir.
P’ng said although technological advancements had created new possibilities in composing and experiencing music, there was still a need to preserve the rich Chinese musical heritage.
“It is always good for us to embrace new changes, but we must not stop honouring our roots as they are the foundations on which new creations are built.
“This performance could become the catalyst for further exploration of traditional Chinese music for it to continue resonating with the audience in the modern world,” he said.
Wang said Chinese music would endure over time.
(Back row, from seventh left) Wang, Prof Siti Hamisah and P’ng with performers from China Conservatory of Music at UCSI University in Kuala Lumpur.
“With its unique charm, Chinese music can connect ancient wisdom to modern civilisation.
“As Malaysia and China celebrate 50 years of diplomatic relations, I believe performances like this will deepen friendship and mutual understanding as well as inject new energy into both countries,” he added.
He also praised Malaysia for being an open nation where different cultures could co-exist peacefully.
At the event, UCSI University also signed a memorandum of understanding with China Conservatory of Music which includes knowledge and academic exchanges, joint research and development and creative collaborations.
