The Sound of Music
The Sound of Music
I think music has a unique ability to bind diverse people together through a shared, passionate, non-linguistic expression of emotion and meaning. In that sense, music can be seen as a powerful instrument of peace and understanding. It is said that whenever people gather to celebrate, music is central to the occasion.
Two or three times each term, the students of Li Po Chun United World College organise a music recital in the Principal’s (i.e. my) home. These recitals are always a highlight of my week, and the recent recital last Friday afternoon was no exception. I am very grateful to the students for bringing the glorious sound of beautiful music into my home, and sharing their talents so generously and abundantly with the audience of about 40 people.
In turn, I wish I could share the sounds of this memorable and enjoyable afternoon with you, dear reader of my blog! However, in an attempt to give you some idea of the great music we enjoyed, here is the program:
Leanne played Feuillet Feuillets D’Album Esquisse by H. Rene on the harp.
Lai Chun played Journey to Suzhou by X.W. Jiang on the Chinese flute (see photo below).
Alon played a classical item from Europe’s Romantic period on the acoustic guitar.
Eric played Polonaise in C sharp minor Op.26/1 by Chopin on the piano.
Chun See played Number 97 by Müller on the clarinet.
Landon played Ballade No.3 Op.47 in A flat major by Chopin on the piano.
Ina played Greensleeves on the flute.
Rosanne played Prelude No.21 in B flat major and Toccata in E major (Fuga) BWV 914, both by Bach, on the piano.
Kant played Colourful Clouds and Chasing the Moon, both Chinese folk songs, on the piano.
Denise and Mandy played Elegy by Faure on the cello and piano (see photo at the top).
Ema played his classical guitar as Medli sang the traditional Czech lullaby, Dobrú noc, má milá, dobrú noc.
Henry finished the program by playing Etude Op. 10/12 in C minor “Revolutionary” by Chopin on the piano.
I am especially grateful to Henry, assisted by Landon and Rosanne for organising this first recital of the new academic year. Needless to say, Di and I are waiting eagerly for the next performance!
On a totally different note (nice pun!), today is my daughter Liesl’s birthday, and Tuesday will be my son Phil’s birthday. Happy birthday Liesl and Phil!
Sunday, 29 October 2006