DATES TBC
The Long Walk Chinese Orchestra is a diverse group of musicians who play traditional Chinese melodies on traditional Chinese instruments. There is a wide age range in the group, and the orchestra has a place for both beginners and more experienced musicians. A basic proficiency in reading music and playing scales is a good starting point for new members.
The full range of instruments we have available are: Guzheng (harp), Yanqin (hammer dulcimer), San Xian (3 string banjo), Pipa (Lute), DaRuan (large lute), ZhongRuan (medium lute), XiaoRuan (small lute), Erhu (2 string violin), Liuqin (small Lute), Dizi (Flute), Tanggu (Drums). We have music leaders available to teach Ruan, Liuqin, Erhu, Pipa and Dizi as additional private lessons.
The Orchestra is led by Rick Middleton. Rick began learning to play Chinese music during the Long Walk project in 2006, where he performed on the Pipa. He has had Pipa lessons from London based Pipa player Cheng Yu, Chinese percussion and orchestral sessions with Joseph Chang from Taiwan, DaRuan lessons with Sebastian Lai in Hong Kong, and LiuQin lessons with Irene Choi also in Hong Kong.
Whilst in China in 2013, Rick was able to attend rehearsals for the Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra, performances from southern style trio at Lock Cha Tea House in Hong Kong park and visit the Nanying Troupe at Xiamen who play very ancient music from the Song Dynasty.