On October 11, the “Qin·Ting” concert featuring renowned teacher Zheng Peiqin and his students kicked off at the picturesque West Lake in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province. This event showcased over twenty selected musical pieces, creating a delightful feast for the audience.
The concert opened with a classic folk song, “Picking Tea Song,” performed passionately by Zheng, a first-class national actor and a faculty member of the Zhejiang Conservatory of Music, along with his students. Their heartfelt interpretation beautifully captured the fresh charm and vibrant energy of South China’s tea country. The melodious tunes and lively rhythms instantly ignited the atmosphere, transporting attendees to lush tea gardens.
One of the highlights of the evening was the fusion of classical Chinese poetry with modern music. Zheng’s renditions of “Bu Suan Zi · Ode to Plum Blossoms” and “Voice of the Slow” skillfully blended the elegance of traditional verses with contemporary musical elements, showcasing the profound heritage of Chinese culture and the captivating allure of ethnic vocal music.
The concert reached its climax with multiple songs dedicated to West Lake and the Zhejiang region. “Springtime in West Lake” vividly painted the serene waves and blooming flowers of this iconic locale through its delicate lyrics and gentle melody. Meanwhile, “West Lake on Earth” and “China’s Beautiful Landscape” harmoniously intertwined stunning imagery of China’s majestic scenery with cultural richness. The familiar tune of “September in Hangzhou,” accompanied by enchanting vocals, perfectly echoed the sweet fragrance of osmanthus flowers wafting through the city, leaving the audience mesmerized.
To conclude the evening, all performers united to sing “Beautiful Zhejiang” and “I Love a Clear Zhejiang.” These songs expressed their deep affection for the land while embodying aspirations for a brighter future. The concert concluded amidst enthusiastic applause, marking a successful event.
The “Sound and Picture of West Lake” initiative is a collaborative cultural service brand created by the Zhejiang Conservatory of Music in partnership with the community. It serves not only as a platform for artistic practice by students and faculty but also as an outlet for high-quality musical content and artistic dissemination. The project aims to elevate the auditory landscape of West Lake, cultivate unique audiovisual experiences, and contribute to the promotion of cultural richness in this world cultural heritage site.
