Resonance of Strings and Harmonics — Guqin Recital by Yao Gongbai [Chinese Culture Festival 2026]
National Guqin inheritor Yao Gongbai presents "Resonance of Strings and Harmonics" for the Chinese Culture Festival 2026, featuring rare Ming and Qing dynasty repertoire and the debut of *Liushui* based on *Zhifa Huican Quejie*. This recital showcases nearly 70 years of mastery, guiding the audience through the historical origins and profound aesthetics of literati music.
- When
5 Jul 2026 15:00 - 16:35
- Location
Hong Kong City Hall Theatre
Hong Kong Island Central Central and Western
5 Edinburgh Place, Central, Hong Kong
- Tickets & pricing
Standard
HKD 280
Concession
HKD 220
Program Introduction
As a featured highlight of the Chinese Culture Festival 2026, the "Resonance of Strings and Harmonics" Guqin Recital invites Mr. Yao Gongbai, a representative inheritor of the national-level intangible cultural heritage project (Guqin Art), to grace the stage. Carrying on his family's legacy with nearly seven decades of experience, Mr. Yao's performance style is characterized by deep traditional roots, elegance, and the profound spirit of the literati.
The recital meticulously selects eight pieces spanning the Ming and Qing dynasties, showcasing the historical evolution of Guqin music. Notably, four of the works originate from the Shenqi Mipu (1425), the oldest extant collection of Guqin tablature, which were meticulously restored by Mr. Yao's father, the late Guqin master Yao Bingyan. Furthermore, the program features the debut performance of Liushui (Flowing Water) based on the Zhifa Huican Quejie (1821). This version highlights the artistic transition of the piece from imagery to realism and reveals the historical origins of the famous Guqin recording of Liushui sent into space in 1977, offering a fascinating connection to music history.
Highlights
- Authentic Inheritance: Performed by a national-level representative inheritor of Guqin art, showcasing nearly 70 years of mastery.
- Historical Treasures: Features rare pieces from the Ming and Qing dynasties, including works from the seminal Shenqi Mipu.
- Academic Significance: The exclusive performance of the Zhifa Huican Quejie version of Liushui, bridging the history of the legendary "space-bound" recording.
- Literati Gathering: An immersive auditory experience that transports audiences through time to the refined aesthetics of ancient literati.
Ticketing
- Ticket Price: HKD 280 / 220
- Duration: Approx. 1 hour and 35 minutes (including a 15-minute intermission).
- Ticketing: Available via URBTIX.
Venue & Access
The event will take place at the Hong Kong City Hall Theatre, located at 5 Edinburgh Place, Central. Audience members can travel via MTR to Central Station and easily access the venue through the footbridge network or street-level exits.
