Asian Music

The intriguing concert “Music of Asia” invites audiences to experience the contemporary sounds of Asian composers and traditional instruments in unexpected new contexts. At the heart of the evening is a concerto by world-renowned Chinese composer Tan Dun, written for guzheng—a traditional Chinese zither similar to the Lithuanian kanklės—and string orchestra. In this work, the ancient traditions of the East meet the language of modern music.

The concerto will be performed by Wu Fei, an extraordinary guzheng virtuoso known for her artistic versatility and improvisational talent. She will be joined by Swedish conductor Leif Karlsson, a passionate advocate of contemporary music, member of the acclaimed percussion ensemble Kroumata, and artistic director of the Lithuanian State Wind Orchestra—the only ensemble of its kind in Lithuania.

An unexpected highlight of the concert will be improvisations performed live by Wu Fei and Leif Karlsson. Also featured in the program is the delicate and introspective Requiem by Japanese composer Tōru Takemitsu—a chamber piece filled with quiet contemplation and luminous sorrow.

The project is funded by the Lithuanian Council for Culture.