Concert 1 2026 Chinese Lunar New Year Concert
About
The Grainger Wind Symphony opens its 2026 season with its Lunar New Year Concert, a vibrant celebration of Chinese culture expressed through the rich colours of the Western wind symphony.Melbourne’s Grainger Wind Symphony presents a compelling program of wind band music by Chinese composers from around the world, alongside works deeply influenced by Chinese musical traditions. Under the leadership of Music Director Roland Yeung, the concert brings two solo musicians of Chinese heritage performing within the Western wind symphony tradition, showcasing both the ensemble’s cultural diversity and its depth of artistic talent.
The program features the beloved Butterfly Lovers Violin Concerto by Liang Zhu, performed by violinist Alyssa Wong, alongside New Song of the Herdsman for solo dizi and wind band performed by Dizi player Sandy Yao, highlighting the expressive power of traditional Chinese instruments in dialogue with a contemporary symphonic setting.
“This concert allows me to connect with my own Chinese heritage while celebrating the diversity for which the Grainger Wind Symphony is known,” says Roland Yeung. “It explores how composers trained outside China blend Western compositional techniques with the spirit and storytelling of Chinese culture, brought to life by Melbourne musicians.”
This Lunar New Year Concert affirms the Grainger Wind Symphony as one of Melbourne’s most versatile and community-minded ensembles, offering audiences a program that balances reflection, cultural connection, and festive celebration.
Date
Saturday 28 February 2026 7:00 PM - 9:30 PM (UTC+11)Location
Ian Woolf Auditorium, De Young Performing Arts Centre, Carey Grammar School
Gate 1, 349 Barkers Road,, Kew Victoria 3103