Xuefei Yang (Melbourne)

Emerging from the twilight of Chinas Cultural Revolution, a period where Western musical instruments and music were banned, Xuefei Yang was the first guitarist ever admitted to a Chinese conservatoire. At ten, her debut recital won her a concert guitar from the Spanish Ambassador; at fourteen, Joaquin Rodrigo attended her Madrid concert, and John Williams gifted two of his own instruments to Beijings Central Conservatoire for her studies.

She has since captivated audiences in over fifty countries including appearances at Carnegie Hall and the BBC Proms and has collaborated with Ian Bostridge, Roberto Alagna, Sir James Galway, and major orchestras worldwide.

Classic FM named her one of the 100 Top Classical Musicians of Our Time, and BBC Music Magazine ranks her among the Top Six Guitarists of the Century.

From pioneering cross-cultural commissions to reimagining ancestral melodies, Xuefei Yang continues to expand the guitars horizons with every note. Dont miss your chance to witness her live in concertan event that will linger in memory long after the final note.

This program is a sonic odyssey that carries you across continents, eras, and styles.

It begins with Isaac Albenizs Asturias, a Spanish classic whose driving rhythms and moorish flair immediately ignite the stage. The spotlight then turns to Australia, with two works by John C. WilliamsWhen the Birds Return and Hello Franciseach imbued with lyrical warmth and a sense of place.

From there, we cross to Paris with Erik Saties introspective Gnossienne No. 3 and the lighthearted charm of La diva de lEmpire, evoking the eccentric elegance of early 20th-century France.

The mood turns meditative with Ryuichi Sakamotos Merry Christmas, Mr. Lawrence, followed by Xuefei Yangs own Xinjiang Fantasy, which draws on traditional Chinese melodies to create a rich, contemporary tapestry.

American jazz classics bring a new energy to the stage, with Jerome Kerns Smoke Gets in Your Eyes and Billy Strayhorns Take the 'A' Train swinging through smoky ballrooms and vibrant city streets.

Next, we head to Latin America with Manuel Ponces tender Estrellita and playful Scherzino Mexicano, leading into the passionate tension of Astor Piazzollas La muerte del angel.

Two iconic Brazilian works follow: Luiz Bonfas Manha de Carnaval and Antonio Carlos Jobims A felicidade, each full of sunlit melancholy and gentle rhythmic sway.

The program closes with Paco Penas El Nuevo Dia, a bright and optimistic piece inspired by Colombian musical traditionsa fitting end to this global musical voyage.