Kronos Quartet, Wu Man: Tan Dun - Ghost Opera | A Fusion of Classical Music and Chinese Folk Music

This studio recording features the Kronos Quartet playing Tan Dun’s “Ghost Opera“. Commissioned for the quartet, “Ghost Opera“ blends sophisticated techniques with folk traditions. Kronos is joined by special guest Wu Man for this evocative work which adds China pipa into a matrix of Bach, Shakespeare and traditional Asian music overlaid with ritual and extra-musical elements. The musicians are required to become performance artists, chanting, reciting text, moving dramatically around the stage, and playing a variety of instruments from gongs dipped in water to finger cymbals. “Ghost Opera“ was staged and lit by Larry Neff in collaboration with Tan Dun. Subscribe to wocomoMUSIC: Follow us on Facebook: ABOUT KRONOS Since its inception in 1973, the San Francisco-based Kronos Quartet has emerged as a leading voice for new work. They have introduced new music and new composers to an international audience numbering millions. Combining a unique musical vision with a fearless dedication to experimentation, and a fresh emphasis on visual presentation, Kronos has assembled an eclectic body of work unparalleled in its range and scope of expression and, in the process, has captured the attention of audiences worldwide. Kronos is responsible for the creation of 400 new string quartets - more than twice the number by Haydn, Mozart, Beethoven, Schubert and Brahms combined. Their dozens of audio recordings have sold over a million copies internationally and they have been nominated for five Grammy Awards. Kronos Quartet are: David Harrington - violin John Sherba - violin Hank Dutt - viola Joan Jeanrenaud - cello Special guest performer: Wu Man Director: Manfred Waffender Production: RM Associates with France 3 and Ovation (The Artist Network) © 1998, Licensed by Digital Classics Distribution