Myth is the soul of a civilization—an echo of its origins, beliefs, and dreams. When retold through music, myth becomes not just memory, but resonance. Tonight’s program invites you to experience Chinese mythology reimagined through sound, where ancient tales meet contemporary artistry. We begin with Guo Jingmu’s Shan Gao, a seven-minute piece inspired by the fiery beast from the Classic of Mountains and Seas. In this myth, Shan Gao—a wild boar-like creature with glowing red fur—sacrifices itself to restore balance to the earth. The music captures its solitary strength and the elemental power of fire, transforming legend into sonic ritual. Next, Wang Zhengping’s Tian Long Yin conjures the celestial court of Śakra, king of gods, where the Eight Legions of Devas and Dragons perform music in divine service. Drawing from Buddhist cosmology and martial imagery, the piece radiates grandeur and mysticism, echoing the heroic spirit of Xiao Feng from Demi-Gods and Semi-Devils. Finally, Zhang Chao’s Song of Heaven and Earth unfolds as a 25-minute musical epic. Inspired by the Dai legend of Zhao Shutun and Wan Na, and Shen Congwen’s Border Town, the work explores love’s courage and quiet devotion. The pipa becomes both narrator and emotional vessel, weaving through orchestral textures like wind through mountains—sometimes fierce, sometimes tender. Tonight, myth is not just told—it is sung, played, and felt. Through these works, we rediscover the timeless power of storytelling, where music becomes the language of memory, and legend becomes a living voice. Goodnight.