Traditional with a twist

In 2007, Jiang returned to teach at the Central Conservatory of Music after working in Japan for nearly 40 years. Although she has now retired, she continues to play every day, a practice she describes as being as natural as eating and breathing.

"At the heart of her artistic philosophy lies a profound reverence for the erhu's cultural heritage and her commitment to promoting Chinese musical traditions to global audiences," says pipa player Yang, who was Jiang's classmate at the Central Conservatory of Music. The pair have been performing together since 1987 when they both recorded tracks for The Last Emperor.

Despite being trained classically as a child, Mo Mo, who will be accompanying Jiang on the cello at the upcoming concert, has always had an interest in traditional Chinese music.

"Since both the erhu and the cello are stringed instruments, they have lots of things in common in terms of playing," he says. "The pieces Jiang has chosen for the concert also cover a range of Western music, which proves her dedication to preserving and innovating the playing of the erhu."

Huang, who will be accompanying Jiang on piano, is also looking forward to the event. "When she picks up her erhu, she totally immerses herself in the music. The concert will be an unforgettable experience."