Takako Nishizaki, a renowned violinist, presents a captivating collection of Chinese orchestral music with her album "Violin Concerto 'Hung Hu' & Other Popular Chinese Orchestral Music." Released on July 3, 2015, under the Marco-Polo label, this 47-minute classical album is a testament to Nishizaki's virtuosity and her deep connection with the rich musical traditions of China.
The album opens with the stunning "Violin Concerto 'Hung Hu'," a piece that showcases Nishizaki's exceptional skill and the orchestra's powerful accompaniment. Following this is the "Fantasy on a Xinjiang Folk Song," arranged by M. Kawai for violin and orchestra, which offers a beautiful blend of traditional folk melodies and classical orchestration.
The "Shanbei Suite" is a highlight, presenting a series of movements that capture the essence of the Shanbei region's music, while "Celebration Dance" brings the album to a lively and joyous conclusion. Other tracks like "The Horse Cart" and "Happy Grassland" add depth and variety, each telling a unique story through music.
Nishizaki's interpretation of these pieces is both sensitive and dynamic, making this album a must-listen for fans of classical music and those interested in the diverse sounds of Chinese orchestral works.