Programme Notes
The first movement (Song of the Moon) is performed on the zhongruan and displays the three characteristics of the moon: calmness, brightness and movement. The moon is not like the lively stars, she always keeps her calm. When everything is asleep, she is alone yet bright, calm but in motion; in her speedy rotation, she reflects the brightness from the sun. It is just as if she is watching over the world, looking back at the past and thinking about the future.
The second movement (Song of the Sun) is performed on the liuqin and illustrates the two spirits of the sun: light and heat. When the seven colours of the rainbow come together, the sun can shine forth its bright light and bring its warmth and love to the world.