Scarred by the occurrences of Chinese cultural policy, composer Wang Xilin (*1937) reflects on his own life experience in his works. Unconventional sound clusters in the style of Krzysytof Perenderecki and monumental lament in the tradition of Dmitri Schastakovits's powerful historical symphonies characterise the compositions of Wang Xilin. In his music he reflects on a bloody and agitated century of Chinese history, bringing into question the future of his country. His critical viewpoint has led to a stony path in life; full of obstacles and deprivation. His musical work is still only shown occasionally in China. For example, his first symphony was shown in 1999, 37 years after its completion. The Basel Sinfonietta and CULTURESCAPES have invited the composer to Switzerland. Besides the first world premiere of his 4th symphony, there will be a piano concerto with soloist Sa Chen, winner of the Chopin competition. Additionally, we will show an improvisation project of the Basel composer and percussionist Fritz Hauser. The orchestra will perform in a very unusual way by scraping, rubbing and grinding; creating sounds that do not yet exist on a sheet of music paper.
