A Tropical Island (Reprise) - Shao Rong, Sakamoto, Masaru
More exquisite Chinese lute music from pipa virtuoso, Shao Rong. In this, her second album for Pacific Moon, Ms. Rong again beckons us to linger in her vibrant and exotic world. More than 2,000 years old, the pipa is one... more » of the older musical instruments in the world that is still played. Shao Rong stretches the musical bounderies with her playing, mixing traditional and contemporary elements, and transforming the conventional image of this instrument. She is an acclaimed master of this ancient instrument, and has performed as a soloist with the Japan Philharmonic Orchestra and the Sapporo Symphony, among many others. She was also personally selected by renowned composer Tan Dun to perform the world premier of his "Concerto for Pipa and String Orchestra" at the Pan Pacific Music Festival. To enhance your enjoyment of the music, fragrant incense sticks are included in the spine of the CD jewel case.« less
More exquisite Chinese lute music from pipa virtuoso, Shao Rong. In this, her second album for Pacific Moon, Ms. Rong again beckons us to linger in her vibrant and exotic world. More than 2,000 years old, the pipa is one of the older musical instruments in the world that is still played. Shao Rong stretches the musical bounderies with her playing, mixing traditional and contemporary elements, and transforming the conventional image of this instrument. She is an acclaimed master of this ancient instrument, and has performed as a soloist with the Japan Philharmonic Orchestra and the Sapporo Symphony, among many others. She was also personally selected by renowned composer Tan Dun to perform the world premier of his "Concerto for Pipa and String Orchestra" at the Pan Pacific Music Festival. To enhance your enjoyment of the music, fragrant incense sticks are included in the spine of the CD jewel case.
CD Reviews
What a wonderful collection of music!
Cindy Brock | Georgia, USA | 06/11/2005
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I first heard the song, "A Song of Lilies" on the DirecTV "Soundscapes" channel. Each time I heard it, I found myself wanting to hear it more and more. As most people, I thought the special music was provided by a mandolin...when it was, in fact, a Chinese Lute. Shao Rong is a master with this instrument. This entire CD - which includes 2 incense sticks that give it a heavenly smell when opened - is a pleasure to listen to. Each night before turning in, I listen to "A Song of Lilies." It has become the perfect way to end a hectic day. If you like unique and intriguing new age music, this is a "must buy.""
She did it again!
traveler | 04/13/2004
(5 out of 5 stars)
"In case you're wondering if "Orchid II" is as good as Shao Rong's first "Orchid" CD, the answer is - YES! Listening to this CD is like taking a drink of a cool drink of water on a hot summer day. So refreshing and relaxing - Orchids are my new favorite flower... I highly recommend both of Shao Rong's albums, and look forward to her third!"
Good exotic music - Number 1 among New Age albums!
amazonka | 04/09/2004
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This is a second album of the Chinese pipa virtuoso Shao Rong. If the music in the first album was fully composed and arranged by Seiichi Kyoda, then this album is a collaboration of several Japanese composers, including famous Missa Johnouchi (Road to Oasis, Asian Blossoms, Kurenai).
During many years Missa has been promoting Asian instrumental music in the West. That's why many of her compositions feature both traditional Asian instruments and Western type instruments such as guitar, piano, violin. On this CD she did it again! The track no. 7 "Orchid" is a beautiful theme for pipa and string quartet.
Also, on a couple of tracks you will hear vocal of Shao Rong. I must say she doesn't have a powerful voice of an opera singer, but her gentle almost whispering singing just perfectly goes along with her pipa play. Enjoy!"
Very Nice!!!!
traveler | LaPorte, IN | 11/30/2004
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I ordered this c.d. as well as orchid from Amazon after going to the special Chinese exhibit at Chicago's Field Museum, they were playing this in the gift shop, but were sold out. I'm not surprised! The sound quality and music itself is just beautiful. Put this on shuffle play while you're working and it will calm even the most stressful workday. I'm not crazy about the sometimes shrillness or (seeming)redundancy of Asian music which I'm sure is my own shortfall in music appreciation; but I am trying to expand my musical horizons and appreciate this on its merits and own intrinsic beauty. For something not too "over the top" I highly recommend either/both of these c.d.'s wholeheartedly. The incense included in the spines of the c.d.'s was also a nice touch"
Track Listings (10) - Disc #1