The Michigan State University College of Music will host a Lunar New Year concert on at 3 p.m. In Cook Recital Hall, featuring Haiqiong Deng, a celebrated performer of the zheng and qin – two historically significant Chinese string instruments. The concert, now in its fifth year, is part of the Artist-Faculty and Guest Recital Series and is sponsored by WKAR.
Deng’s program, titled Nature, Music, and Convergence, aims to showcase the expressive capabilities of the zheng and qin through a diverse selection of solo and chamber works. A centerpiece of the performance will be Moon Phase, a concerto composed by Sun Yue specifically for Deng. This piece will be performed alongside a chamber ensemble comprised of MSU student musicians playing flute, clarinet, violin, cello, and percussion. The program also includes solo pieces for the 21-string guzheng, offering audiences a focused exploration of this instrument’s unique sound and technique.
Beyond the musical performance itself, Deng intends to provide valuable context, sharing insights into the history, cultural significance, and sonic qualities of the zheng and qin. This educational component is a key element of the concert, aiming to deepen the audience’s appreciation for these instruments and the traditions they represent.
Yvonne Lam, associate professor of violin and director of the Lunar New Year Celebration Concert, emphasized the concert’s growing importance within the university’s musical calendar. This annual concert has become a unique and creative addition to our season, Lam stated. By including student chamber musicians on the program, it gives them the opportunity to perform in a culturally rich musical setting while offering audiences the chance to experience musical traditions that are rarely heard live. It’s also a meaningful way for all of us to learn from an artist who brings deep knowledge and perspective to the performance. The inclusion of student musicians highlights a commitment to cross-cultural collaboration and providing valuable performance experience.
Haiqiong Deng’s dedication to preserving and promoting Chinese musical traditions has earned her widespread recognition, culminating in the Florida Folk Heritage Award. This award honors artists who have made substantial contributions to the preservation of cultural heritage, underscoring Deng’s role as a vital link to these ancient musical forms. The award acknowledges not just her technical skill, but also her commitment to ensuring these traditions continue to thrive.
The concert isn’t simply a performance; it’s designed to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of Chinese culture. The post-concert gathering, complete with refreshments, provides an opportunity for audiences to engage with Deng and further discuss the music and its cultural context. This informal setting encourages dialogue and builds connections between the artist and the community.
The Lunar New Year Celebration Concert is supported by generous sponsorship from Jim Forger and Deborah Moriarty, alongside additional funding from WKAR, the sponsor of the Artist-Faculty and Guest Recital Series. This financial support allows the College of Music to present high-quality cultural events and provide opportunities for both students and the wider community.
Tickets for the concert are priced at $14 for general admission, $12 for seniors (age 60+), and are free for students with valid ID and anyone under the age of 18 (though a ticket is still required). Tickets can be purchased at the door, online at music.msu.edu/events, or by phone at (517) 353-5340. A processing fee of $1.50 applies to tickets purchased online or by phone.
This event represents a significant cultural offering from Michigan State University, demonstrating a commitment to showcasing diverse musical traditions and fostering cross-cultural understanding. The concert provides a platform for a renowned artist like Haiqiong Deng to share her expertise and passion, while also offering valuable performance opportunities for MSU students. It’s a celebration of both tradition and innovation, and a testament to the power of music to connect people across cultures.
