The livestreaming traditional Chinese music concert Mountain, River and Moonlight boasts variety of content and forms, including traditional classical repertoire and modern original works. Integrating guqin, Kunqu opera, tai chi, xiao (a vertical bamboo flute), horse-headed fiddle, cello and vocal performances, it embodies the inclusive spirit of contemporary China. Each musical piece illustrates a unique story from traditional Chinese culture, which indicates the artistic pursuit of “unity of man and nature” and the idea of connecting the ancient and modern.
A note on the title: In the Chinese culture the term “High Mountains, Flowing Water” (高山流水) expresses friendship, quality music and the art of listening. An ancient tale depicts the profound friendship story between Bo Ya, a master of Guqin, and Zong Zhiqi, who was a simple woodcutter that appreciates his music like no other. One day, when master Bo Ya made his annual pilgrimage to play for his old friend, he discovered that Zong Zhiqi has died. The master had then smashed his instrument and never played again.