Spring Break
KC Symphony showcases East, West music
Sam Sheffield
Issue date: 4/7/08 Section: Culture
Wilson commented on the fact that this combining of cultures has been around for centuries.
"They moved around a lot more than we give them credit for. … The original interstate was the silk road," Wilson said.
If Asian culture, art and music are popular in western societies, Man recognized that western music and culture are as popular if not more in Asian countries.
"Western music is booming in China right now. … Every kid wants to be the greatest pianist … and string player." Man said. "We grow up with a different kind of music … but still [western music] is very well received in China."
This combination of other cultures hasn't always been the natural norm. During China's Cultural Revolution, which took place from 1966-76, the Communist Party tried to force a fervor of western culture and modernism onto the people and remove "bourgeoisie influences" and stamp out traditional Chinese culture.
Long was there to witness the effect on music.
"School stopped. … [Traditional] music stopped. People, players, musicians all took to the country side," Long said.
But a number of musicians were allowed to play in official, western style radio shows and musicals. After the Cultural Revolution though, traditional Chinese music was able to be combined or separately enjoyed with western music.
To find out more of this event or others put on by the Kansas City Symphony, visit their website, www.kcsymphony.org or call (816) 471-0400 for ticket information.
ssheffield@unews.com
"They moved around a lot more than we give them credit for. … The original interstate was the silk road," Wilson said.
If Asian culture, art and music are popular in western societies, Man recognized that western music and culture are as popular if not more in Asian countries.
"Western music is booming in China right now. … Every kid wants to be the greatest pianist … and string player." Man said. "We grow up with a different kind of music … but still [western music] is very well received in China."
This combination of other cultures hasn't always been the natural norm. During China's Cultural Revolution, which took place from 1966-76, the Communist Party tried to force a fervor of western culture and modernism onto the people and remove "bourgeoisie influences" and stamp out traditional Chinese culture.
Long was there to witness the effect on music.
"School stopped. … [Traditional] music stopped. People, players, musicians all took to the country side," Long said.
But a number of musicians were allowed to play in official, western style radio shows and musicals. After the Cultural Revolution though, traditional Chinese music was able to be combined or separately enjoyed with western music.
To find out more of this event or others put on by the Kansas City Symphony, visit their website, www.kcsymphony.org or call (816) 471-0400 for ticket information.
ssheffield@unews.com
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