Yuxuan Li, an accomplished guzheng artist, is proud to announce the release of her new EP, “First Note Guzheng.” This collection brings together five timeless traditional Chinese guzheng pieces: 渔舟唱晚 (Fishing Boat Nocturne), 高山流水 (Mountain and Flowing Water), 苏武思乡 (Su Wu Homesick), 出水莲 (Water Lotus), and 广陵散 (Guangling Tune). Each piece in this EP reflects the profound influence that these historical compositions have had on Yuxuan Li’s artistic journey.
Residing in the bustling cities of New York and Los Angeles, Yuxuan has found joy in sharing her love for the guzheng within the diverse cultural landscape of the United States. As an independent musician, performer, and educator, she focuses on fostering cultural exchange and understanding through her music. Her approach to her art is characterized by a gentle curiosity and a respect for tradition, blended with a modest desire to explore new musical horizons. She has collaborated with local artists, experimenting with the guzheng in hip-hop and jazz settings, creating innovative performances that blend traditional Chinese music with contemporary genres.”These traditional pieces are the foundation of my artistry,” Yuxuan Li explains. “Each composition tells a unique story and carries the essence of Chinese musical heritage. By interpreting these masterpieces, I aim to honor the past while bringing their timeless beauty to a contemporary audience.”
The EP opens with 渔舟唱晚 (Fishing Boat Nocturne), a serene and evocative piece that captures the tranquility of a fisherman’s evening. This is followed by 高山流水 (Mountain and Flowing Water), which represents the profound connection between nature and music, a theme that resonates deeply with Yuxuan musical styles, 苏武思乡 (Su Wu Homesick) conveys the poignant emotions of a historical figure’s yearning for his homeland, showcasing Yuxuan Li’s ability to express deep emotional narratives through the guzheng.
出水莲 (Water Lotus) is a delicate and graceful piece that symbolizes purity and renewal, reflecting Yuxuan Li’s innovative approach to traditional music. The EP concludes with 广陵散 (Guangling Tune), a dramatic and powerful composition that highlights Yuxuan Li’s technical prowess and interpretative depth.
With “First Note Guzheng,” Yuxuan Li not only showcases her technical skill and expressive range but also bridges the gap between ancient traditions and modern listeners. Each track is a testament to the enduring power of traditional Chinese music and Yuxuan Li’s dedication to preserving and revitalizing this rich cultural heritage.
“Fallen Leaves.” This original composition is deeply inspired by the traditional pieces featured in her EP “First Note Guzheng,”
“Fallen Leaves” is a testament to Yuxuan Li’s ability to blend traditional influences with her own creative vision. “This composition was inspired by the rich history and emotional depth of the traditional pieces I’ve played and studied,” Yuxuan Li explains. “While ‘First Note Guzheng’ showcases the timeless beauty of these traditional works, ‘Fallen Leaves’ represents my personal journey as an artist, drawing from these roots to create something new and meaningful.”
“Fallen Leaves” stands out not only for its deep connection to traditional guzheng music but also for its innovative blend of contemporary piano elements, reflecting Yuxuan Li’s background in piano studies. The piece uses a lot of traditional guzheng playing techniques such as 泛音 (harmonics), 滑音 (glissando), and 多指摇指 (multi-finger tremolo), seamlessly integrated with three-against-two rhythms commonly found in contemporary piano compositions. This fusion creates a unique soundscape that captures the essence of autumn, with its themes of change, reflection, and renewal, echoing the timeless beauty of the traditional pieces while introducing Yuxuan Li’s distinct musical voice. With “Fallen Leaves,” Yuxuan Li not only honors the legacy of traditional Chinese music but also contributes to its ongoing evolution.
“First Note Guzheng” is now available on all major streaming platforms.
