SARASOTA, Fla.—For a second year, Shen Yun Performing Arts Orchestra traversed the United States to deliver its symphonic harmony. On Oct. 27, the orchestra concluded its 2014 tour in Sarasota’s Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall.
Ryan Mitchell, who works in finance, and Elizabeth Guiliani, in hospital administration, felt fortunate to experience this aural treat, the sounds of an ancient culture, one nearly lost to posterity.
“Accentuating the beauty of ancient Chinese instruments amidst the grandeur or a Western symphony, Shen Yun Symphony Orchestra is restoring the glorious heritage of ancient Chinese melodies, blazing a brand-new path in the world of classical music,” according to the Shen Yun website.
Often referred to as a two stringed Chinese violin, the ancient erhu, dates back four thousand years and touches the hearts of many who hear it. These instruments’ melodies often arouse a deep sense of celestial wonder, striking listeners at their hearts and minds.
“I love it,” Mr. Mitchell said, referring to the erhu. “When they’re sitting there playing it like that.”
Ms. Guiliani said, “Those three girls were absolutely mesmerizing. The way they played it and how it sounded was gorgeous. It was beautiful!”
“Absolutely beautiful,” added Mr. Mitchell
And just as Shen Yun seeks to provide the world with the beauty once so richly contained through the inner meaning of traditional Chinese art forms, it also seeks to educate the world about true Chinese culture by way of keeping it alive.
This fact was not lost on Ms. Guiliani.
“Just to know … lot of this music comes from 5,000—originated from 5,000 years ago—that’s what makes it the most. It makes it beautiful,” she said.
“And knowing the instrument is an original Chinese instrument being played is remarkable.”
Reporting by NTD Television
New York-based Shen Yun Symphony Orchestra comprises musicians from the four Shen Yun Performing Arts touring companies. Shen Yun begins its 2015 world tour on Dec. 26, 2014. For information, visitShenYunPerformingArts.org.
The Epoch Times considers Shen Yun Performing Arts the significant cultural event of our time.
