Flying apsaras in Buddhist cave sites of China are often depicted as dancers or musicians. Based on this theme, the Nationalities Music Orchestra of University and Science and Technology of China (NMOU) offered a musical feast for audience generously on June 10th.

LIU Guliang performing Tiandixingkong (The Starry Sky). (Image by HU Dongyin.)

The whole performance was characterized by a divine and mysterious atmosphere, reflecting on the relationship between humans and spirits. Yet there was still a convert plot of the show: the love and feelings of humans.

Orchestral music Feitian (Flying Apsaras) was the opening and the theme music of the show, which demonstrated a fantastic scene where the apsaras in the fresco become alive. With other music such as Fengnianji (Fiesta of Harvest) and Yaozuwuqu(Dance Music of Yao), audience seemed to communicate with spirits via the orchestra.

Conductor MAO Jiayu decided to encore. (Image by HU Dongyin.)

Solo music and concertos concerned more about love and feelings. Tiandixingkong (The Starry Sky) told a story about a volunteer group which provides medical help for those in need; Hudieyulan (Butterfly and the Blue) talked about romance; Qinchuanqing (Love for Qinchuan) and Xiangge (Song for Homeland) showed the homesickness of a gypsy.

Orchestra member taking photo with friends. (Image by HU Dongyin.)

"I really enjoyed the show." said an audience. "It arouses my interest in nationalities music and the profound culture behind."

NMOU was founded in 2003, and this year is its 15th anniversary. The concert also celebrates the 60th anniversary of USTC and the graduation of members in NMOU.

(Written by HU Dongyin)