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Hong Kong Symphony
Heaven-Earth-Mankind
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Tan Dun's "Symphony 1997" premieres as Hong Kong switches from British to Chinese rule.
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57 minutes
Directed by Larry Weinstein
Produced by Rhombus Media
Featuring Yo-Yo Ma, Tan Dun, and the Bianzhong.
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HONG KONG SYMPHONY documents the dramatic premiere of Tan Dun's Symphony 1997: Heaven-Earth-Mankind at the historic ceremonies marking the handover of Hong Kong from British to Chinese rule on June 30, 1997. Featured are Tan Dun, the dynamic young Chinese composer/conductor, cellist Yo-Yo Ma, and the 2,400-year-old Bianzhong, a magnificent set of 64 bells that was recently unearthed from a royal tomb in Hubei, China.
The film captures the frantic energy of the handover through on-the-street interviews and backstage verité news coverage from Hong Kong, China, Britain and the US, and historical footage. The program also reveals the personal meditations of Tan Dun and Yo-Yo Ma, as these remarkable artists--and the magnificent music they create--offer fascinating counterpoint to the "official" versions of this historical moment.
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Grade Level: 7-12, College, Adult
US Release Date: 1998
Copyright Date: 1997
DVD ISBN: 1-59458-957-7
VHS ISBN: 1-56029-780-8
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Reviews "Presents some intriguing larger questions...Can composers work effectively in a political arena?...The film is recommended for libraries with collection interests in political science, Asian studies, broadcast journalism, and music. " Richard McRae, University at Buffalo Music Library, MC Journal
"Will prove of great interest for viewers with an interest in Chinese history, international relations, and ceremonial music performances." Wisconsin Bookwatch
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"Of great interest for viewers with an interest in Chinese history, international relations, and ceremonial music performances." Wisconsin Bookwatch
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Awards and Festivals Gold Apple, National Educational Media Network
Chris Award, Columbus International Film & Video Festival
Nominations, Gemini Awards
Subjects Asian Studies China Composers History Hong Kong Humanities International Studies Music Pacific Studies Performing Arts Social Psychology
Related Titles
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