Hearing Intangible Cultural Heritage: A Demonstration Lecture on Chinese Music
This program explores the evolution of the Pipa, a recognized intangible cultural heritage, through commissioned works by Hong Kong composers, featuring performances of Pipa, Sanxian, and Zhongruan to highlight the intersection of tradition and modern Chinese music.
- When
10 Jul 2026 20:00 - 21:00
- Location
Hong Kong City Hall High Block 8/F Recital Hall
Hong Kong Island Central Central and Western
8/F, High Block, Hong Kong City Hall, 5 Edinburgh Place, Central, Hong Kong
- Tickets & pricing
Free
HKD 0
Overview
The vocabulary of Chinese music is a long-standing treasure, continuously evolving through cultural exchange between the East and the West. This demonstration lecture, "Hearing Intangible Cultural Heritage," focuses on the Pipa, renowned as the "King of Chinese Plucked Instruments." Recognized as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2008, the Pipa boasts a history spanning over a millennium. From its origins as a general term for various plucked instruments during the Qin and Han dynasties, to the "bent-neck" Pipa introduced via the Silk Road in the Eastern Jin period, and the preserved traditions of Nanyin Pipa, the instrument has undergone significant transformation. It was not until the Song Dynasty that the synthesis of these various forms established the basic structure of the modern Pipa.
Highlights
This program goes beyond a mere academic lecture; it is a living experience of musical history. Through works commissioned from Hong Kong composers, drawing inspiration from Dunhuang music and Nanyin Pipa, audiences are invited on a musical journey across the land and maritime Silk Roads. The lecture explores the historical evolution of Chinese plucked instruments, integrating modern modified instruments like the Zhongruan and the Sanxian—which carries the heritage of the Qin-Han string-drum (Xiantao). Together, these instruments weave a narrative that bridges tradition and contemporary soundscapes.
Artists
This lecture features a distinguished lineup of musicians and composers:
- Presenter: Eastern String Arts Ensemble
- Pipa / Nanyin Pipa: Chan Wan-yin
- Sanxian / Zhongruan: Lau Mo-wah
- Commissioned Composers: Chan Nga-man, Leung Yan-ting, Chung Tsz-yin
Important Information
- The program will be conducted in Cantonese.
- Admission is free, but registration is required.
Venue & Access
The event takes place at the Recital Hall on the 8th Floor of the High Block at Hong Kong City Hall, conveniently located in the heart of Central, making it an ideal venue for cultural exploration.
