Year of the Monkey: Chinese Music in the Great Northwest

Year of the Monkey: Chinese Music in the Great Northwest is a powerhouse of Chinese acoustical delights – with a twist. As the 32nd Annual Concert in the “East Meets West” concert series, Year of the Monkey continues the series’ tradition of combining favorite orchestrations from China with beloved Western pieces – all played on beautifully harmonious combinations of traditional instruments hailing from both cultures.

Audiences will revel in the intimate sounds of a culture-blending trio, lose themselves in the enrobing harp-like qualities of a guzheng ensemble, be roused to energetic highs by thrilling percussion, and be engulfed by the full, sweeping waves of musical manna that is the full Seattle Chinese Orchestra, conducted by local favorite Roger Nelson.

Cellos and erhus join pipas, dizis, and for the first time incorporated into the full orchestra, a grand piano. This is one cultural exchange that is not to be missed!

Presented by the Chinese Arts and Music Association with ongoing support from Newport Covenant Church.

About Seattle Chinese Orchestra

The Seattle Chinese Orchestra (SCO) is the only traditional Chinese Orchestra in the Pacific Northwest. Formed in 1984, its mission is to advocate and promote traditional Chinese music to the Western world. Directed by the internationally recognized erhu virtuoso Warren Chang and conducted by Fred Chu, the SCO offers instruction and performance opportunities to anyone of any age interested in learning traditional Chinese instruments. With over 50 musicians participating, the SCO performs annually in a variety of venues including Benaroya Hall. The ensemble includes not only Chinese musicians but also Americans who are lovers of Chinese culture and well-versed in Chinese music.