Just a short blog for all of you music fans out there:
For those from the U.S., you are probably quite familiar with NPR, National Public Radio.
The staff of NPR was here in Sichuan last year to do pieces on the province when the earthquake struck. In fact, they were actually interviewing the Chengdu Theological Seminary president at the time in his office on the 4th floor of the seminary. I still remember reports of them running into the street in front of the church, the same one I attended last year as a language student at Sichuan University.
A year later, two staff members returned to report on the anniversary of the quake. The articles, transcripts and on-line listening of these reports are quite poignant but one in particular crossed my mind as being worthy of sharing.
An American folk musician, Abigail Washburn, and electronic artist Dave Liang are working together to create an earthquake song album using tool sounds of the rebuilding mixed with various songs sung by survivors. They spent 2 weeks going around the areas, taping voices, sounds and music, which they are currently putting together to create a special album.
Abigail has a strong tie to Sichuan as she studied Chinese here years ago, and I must say her Chinese is very good as I heard it on the broadcast.
But what is truly stunning and amazing are the songs they have put together. They are moving and very touching, all sung by survivors. Many are made up by the singers themselves. Our artists have merely added their expertise in creating truly unique, beautiful, fun, upbeat and quite remarkable music.
I personally want to get my hands on this album as soon as it goes on sale. Proceeds will go toward earthquake relief.
If you’re interested in reading the article and listening to the report, which includes snippets of the album and info about how to get it, go to:
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=103906236
You are really in for a treat!
Ping An (Peace) from Luzhou
connie's space 