Two Treasures of the Ming Dynasty (Stephen Chin) – String Orchestra

Description

1. Lotus
2. Imperial Horses

The Ming Dynasty (1368 – 1644) was an extraordinary period in China’s history largely due to exploration and the opening of trade routes to Europe, Africa and throughout the Indian Ocean. The population of China literally doubled during this time. The Imperial Court was the heart of the flourishing arts where literature, music, painting, sculpture, and ceramic masterpieces achieved astonishing levels of refinement. It was also the meeting place of important visitors from far away counties.

The contemplative image of the lotus and the energetic portrayal of horses often appeared in the arts to express the serenity and yet the strength of the court. The use of sustained notes, open strings, harmonics, energetic retakes, and driving quavers all combine to reflect these sentiments.