Zhongruan performance by Cheng-Ying Chuang

[Blue]

The advantage of string instruments is that one generally can sing while playing. Here are short segments with Cheng-Ying Chuang demonstrating such performance using a zhongruan. The second clip highlights his ability to sing a double-R, which is significant as many Asians have difficulty even pronouncing a simple r.

According to his personal homepage and his facebook site , he actually spent a considerable amount of time in London, including improvising in bars in London. He now seems to be based in Taiwan, however.

[edcat7]

He's playing a SGN zhongruan and his liuqin was made for him by his teacher's teacher. Whilst his singing takes getting used to his playing is superb.

[Blue]

His singing in person sounds better than what is recorded here. I suspect this has something to do with the limited audio range that could be recorded by the Sony RX100 MK 3.

[Blue]

Looks like he will be performing in a more formal venue on 5/16. That would mean I won't be able to record his performance.

[Blue]

Couldn't record the concert, but I was able to record the curtain call as well as a painting that was being painted in front of everyone during the concert.

Sometimes it feels pathetic attending these concerts by myself without a friend.  Often my parents ask me why I attend these concerts by myself without friends.  I answer that either not many people are into traditional Chinese music these days or that those who are into traditional Chinese music can sometimes be really mean to those are supposed to be their friends.

[davidmdahl]

Thanks for the report and photos, Allen. It is fun to see what is happening in other places. If you keep on going to Chinese music events, you should find others who share your tastes. It is okay to have different circles of friends who appreciate different things.

Best wishes,

David