Core Viewpoint - The article pays tribute to Zhao Jiping, a prominent Chinese composer, highlighting his contributions to music and his deep-rooted connection to Chinese culture and tradition [1]. Group 1: Personal Background - Zhao Jiping, born in 1945, is the honorary chairman of the Chinese Musicians Association and has composed music for over a hundred films and television series, including notable works like "Yellow Earth" and "Red Sorghum" [2]. - Influenced by his father, Zhao Wangyun, a renowned painter, Zhao Jiping developed a strong connection to traditional Chinese culture and folk music [9][11]. - He graduated from Xi'an Conservatory of Music in 1970 and spent 21 years at the Shaanxi Provincial Research Institute of Opera, immersing himself in folk music [14][16]. Group 2: Creative Process - Zhao Jiping dedicates two to three hours each morning to his creative work, often using a piano to develop musical ideas [2][28]. - He emphasizes the importance of integrating traditional elements into his compositions, stating that his music reflects a rich Chinese heritage while also being internationally appealing [8][28]. - His recent work includes a vocal suite titled "Long River for Thousands of Miles," which features 14 songs based on poems by Li Bai [28]. Group 3: Musical Philosophy - Zhao Jiping believes that a composer should continuously absorb folk art and maintain a connection to the people, which he considers essential for creativity [29]. - He describes his music as a dialogue between Chinese stories and the world, using traditional forms to express contemporary themes [8][21]. - Zhao Jiping's works are characterized by their vibrant incorporation of Chinese traditional elements, aiming to resonate with both domestic and international audiences [26].

Core Insights - The National Centre for the Performing Arts Orchestra's recording of Bruckner's Sixth Symphony has been recognized as one of the best in history, marking a significant achievement for both the orchestra and its music director, Lü Jia [1] - Lü Jia emphasizes the importance of using music as a universal language to convey Chinese culture and philosophy to international audiences [1][3] Group 1: Lü Jia's Background and Return to China - Lü Jia, the first Asian music director of the Teatro Lirico Giuseppe Verdi in Trieste, returned to China in 2012, motivated by the rapid development of Chinese music and the establishment of the National Centre for the Performing Arts [2] - He feels a sense of responsibility to help young Chinese musicians and singers, having received support during his studies abroad [2] Group 2: Unique Aspects of the National Centre for the Performing Arts Orchestra - The orchestra's youth is seen as a significant advantage, bringing enthusiasm and curiosity from international audiences unfamiliar with Chinese music [3] - The orchestra has received enthusiastic responses during international tours, showcasing the high standard of Chinese art [3] Group 3: Cultural Exchange Through Music - Lü Jia believes that music transcends language barriers, allowing for emotional and thematic understanding among diverse audiences [3] - The combination of Western symphonic music with Chinese compositions during performances is a strategic choice to present Chinese culture effectively [4] Group 4: The Essence of Chinese Music - Chinese music is fundamentally different from Western music, focusing on imagery and imagination rather than logical progression [5] - The use of Western instruments to perform Chinese works aims to convey cultural spirit rather than replicate traditional forms [5][6] Group 5: Future of Chinese Music on the Global Stage - Lü Jia predicts a prosperous era for Chinese symphonic music within the next 5 to 6 years, as the demand for high-level artistic culture continues to grow [8] - The National Centre for the Performing Arts plans to expand its international collaborations and performances, reflecting a broad vision for promoting Chinese music globally [8] Group 6: Challenges and Opportunities - The development of Chinese music requires a balance between respecting tradition and embracing innovation, utilizing Western compositional techniques to create compelling works [7] - The large population of China presents a significant opportunity for cultivating a robust audience for classical music, with the potential for millions to engage with the art form [10]