Genre

:

Vocal

 

Style of Five is a classical music ensemble that has been captivating audiences with their unique blend of traditional Chinese and Western music since their founding in 2004. The group is composed of five talented musicians who are all graduates of the China Conservatory of Music in Beijing. They are: Zhang Yang (pipa), Wang Guowei (erhu), Wang Shan (zheng), Liu Li (dizi), and Yang Jing (yangqin). The ensemble was founded by Zhang Yang, who had a vision of creating a group that would showcase the beauty and versatility of traditional Chinese instruments. He recruited four other musicians who shared his passion for music and together they formed Style of Five. The group's name is a play on words, as it sounds similar to the Chinese word for "harmony" (he), which is a central theme in their music. Style of Five's music is a fusion of traditional Chinese and Western styles, with a focus on improvisation and experimentation. The group's repertoire includes both original compositions and arrangements of traditional Chinese and Western pieces. They are known for their virtuosic performances, which showcase the technical skill and musicality of each member. One of the highlights of Style of Five's career was their performance at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. They were chosen to perform at the opening ceremony, where they played a piece called "Jasmine Flower" (Mo Li Hua) on traditional Chinese instruments. The performance was watched by millions of people around the world and helped to introduce Chinese music to a global audience. Style of Five has also performed at numerous other prestigious events and venues, including the Lincoln Center in New York, the Kennedy Center in Washington D.C., and the Royal Albert Hall in London. They have collaborated with many other musicians and ensembles, including the New York Philharmonic and the Silk Road Ensemble. In addition to their live performances, Style of Five has released several albums, including "East Meets West" and "Silk Road." Their music has received critical acclaim and has won several awards, including the Golden Melody Award for Best Traditional Album in 2010. Despite their success, Style of Five remains committed to their mission of promoting traditional Chinese music and culture. They frequently perform at schools and community events, and they have established a music education program to teach young people about traditional Chinese instruments and music. In conclusion, Style of Five is a unique and talented ensemble that has made a significant contribution to the world of classical music. Their fusion of traditional Chinese and Western styles has captivated audiences around the world, and their virtuosic performances showcase the beauty and versatility of traditional Chinese instruments. With their commitment to education and outreach, Style of Five is sure to continue inspiring and entertaining audiences for years to come.

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