Inner Dialog on Two Strings | 二 弦 · 心 語

Theatre 1308 is thrilled to present the Gai Lan Ensemble, featuring acclaimed erhu artist Lu Jian-Min from Beijing.

The erhu, often referred to as the "Chinese fiddle," is a traditional two-stringed bowed instrument with a long neck and a resonator covered in python skin. Played in a vertical position, the erhu is celebrated for its hauntingly expressive and melodic sound, making it a staple in both traditional Chinese orchestras and contemporary music.

In this special concert, Mr. Lu will perform a rich selection of traditional and classical erhu pieces, including Cantonese music, new ensemble works, and original compositions, showcasing the depth and versatility of this iconic instrument.

About the Artists

Principal Erhuist of the China National Traditional Orchestra (中央民族乐团）, Lu Jian-Min has toured around the world and performed in iconic concert halls, such as Carnegie Hall, Berliner Philharmonie, and The Golden Hall in Vienna. He specializes in playing Cantonese music, and won the first prize playing gaohu at “National Cantonese Music Competition”. In recent years, Lu has focused on composing and arranging erhu music, which was published in a compilation book in 2021. 

 

Photo credit: Mike Tan

Gai Lan Ensemble nourishes your senses with their fresh repertoire, customized arrangements, and enthusiastic performances. Led by virtuosic flutist Jiajia Li, the chamber ensemble is made up of the finest Chinese instrumentalists in Alberta. The members’ diverse musical experience — from Chinese opera, Chinese orchestra, classical, jazz and pop — resulted in Gai Lan Ensemble’s wildly successful first live performance at Calgary's TD Chinatown Street Festival in 2022. Other notable performances include a packed performance at the Studio Bell in 2023, as well as a collaboration with Cirque de la Nuit at Chinook Blast 2024.