Chinese classical and contemporary music-making at Te Kōkī New Zealand School of Music (NZSM) celebrated the beginning of Chinese New Year on campus on 20 February.

Chinese classical and contemporary music-making at Te Kōkī New Zealand School of Music (NZSM) celebrated the beginning of Chinese New Year on campus on 20 February.

Led by New Zealand guzheng virtuoso Chen Xiyao, an interactive workshop featuring China’s most ancient musical instrument, combined with the talents of Te Koki graduates Jonny Marks (Mongolian throat singing), Jack Hooker (guitar) and Tristan Carter (violin), produced astonishing improvisations of fusion sound, laden with emotional impact.

Among the many music lovers at the workshop were children learning the guzheng and other Chinese instruments.

“Xiyao and his collaborators have opened a window on the rich cultural diversity and open-mindedness that music can bring to our lives and communities,” says NZSM Director Euan Murdoch.

The event was the highlight of a week-long programme of Xiyao’s recitals organised for Wellington audiences by Victoria’s Confucius Institute

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