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Classical festival still aims to hit relaxed note
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AFTER bringing seasonal sounds to outdoor spaces in Shanghai for the past five years, Music in the Summer Air (MISA) this year moves most of its performances to the Shanghai Symphony Hall, which opened last autumn.
Next month’s festival promises to keep bringing high-quality and low-cost concerts to local residents, and this year sees the New York Philharmonic Orchestra perform as the first overseas resident orchestra.
Themed as “Classical Plus,” the 2015 MISA will present 22 events from July 4 to 18 — with 16 staged at the Shanghai Symphony Hall.
The remainder will be held at the Shanghai Urban Music Lawn in front of the Shanghai Concert Hall in Huangpu District.
Diverse classical works will continue to play major roles in the festival, say the organizers, highlighted by top musicians like the Berlin Philharmonic Brass, organist Cameron Carpenter and composer Steve Reich, who will act as conductor this time.
Tickets are free for nine events, while prices for other concerts range from 50 yuan (US$8) to 580 yuan.
Festival themes include “Hot Classic,” “Relaxing Classic,” “Crossover Classic” and “Fun Classic,” as providing easy access to classical music has always been the goal, says Zhou Ping, vice president of the Shanghai Symphony Orchestra, the organizer.
“We want the festival to become a bridge linking musicians and the general public, so our first priority is to attract the public, before introducing more classical works,” says Zhou.
“Classical Plus,” as the main theme, indicates further trials in exploring the boundaries of classic music.
The New York Philharmonic Orchestra will collaborate with US violinist Joshua Bell and pianist Emanuel Ax in classic works by composers such as Brahms, Stravinsky, Ravel and Mozart in concerts from July 4 to 10.
The orchestra will also interpret works by teenage composers from China’s Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region and Kenya in its Young People’s Concert. Both “Shadow of the Wolf” and “New York: In Town and Out” were created based on the young composers’ memories of their hometowns.
Spectacular shows that will wow audiences are also promised. These include a 3D presentation of Stravinsky’s “The Rite of Spring” by dancer Julia Mach and the Shanghai Symphony Orchestra, as well as the world premiere of “Ping Pong Concerto” by professional table tennis players and the Shanghai Symphony Orchestra.
Even though most of the events are being staged in a concert hall, audiences are still encouraged to dress casually.
A fair of food, drink and music-related products and souvenirs at the Shanghai Symphony Hall venue will also help create an easy atmosphere, say organizers.
“We still want it to be a relaxing occasion for everyone,” says Zhou. “A classical concert doesn’t always have to be serious.”
Date: July 4-18
Venue: Shanghai Symphony Hall, 1380 Fuxing Rd M.
Tickets: 50-580 yuan, free for some events
Venue: Shanghai Urban Music Lawn, 523 Yan’an Rd E.
Tickets: Free
Tel: 4008-210-522
Visit www.misa.org.cn for more information.
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