In a world increasingly enamored with fleeting trends, the longevity and elegance of traditional arts often get overshadowed. But when an artist like Yun Fei takes the stage, we’re vividly reminded of the timeless allure of classical forms, ingeniously melded with the modern pulse. The “Song of the Drum” series, which includes the singles “Drum Zen,” “Joy,” and “Glory,” is a testament to Fei’s reverence for her Chinese musical heritage and her innovative spirit.
A product of rigorous training and deep passion, Yun Fei’s journey began with acquiring bachelor degrees in Yang Qin and Chinese percussion from the renowned Tianjin Conservatory of Music in China. These sixteen formative years crystallized her distinctive style—a medley of traditional rhythms and contemporary cadences. But her accolades don’t just stop at formal education. Invitations from esteemed institutions like the New York CBA Culture Art Association USA and collaborations with notable artists such as Mr. Su Yang in projects like “Dance with Horse Lantern” have solidified her reputation in the world of music.
Through her illustrious career, Fei’s unique approach of weaving modern elements into traditional music is evident. She doesn’t merely play her instruments; she converses with them, deriving from their vast historical repertoires while adding her own vibrant twists. This can be seen in her foundational work with the “East Glory Chinese Music Centre” of Canada. As a founder, she’s not just reviving and promoting age-old Chinese melodies but is revolutionizing them with her “classical creation” ethos.
Perhaps what stands out most about Fei’s artistic narrative is her continuous effort to find the confluence between the “classical and modern”, the “traditional and popular”, and the “Chinese and Western.” The testament to this is her track record, boasting an impressive lineup ranging from “Dance of Horse Lantern” to “The Ode to the Westward Journey,” each piece a unique blend of history and innovation.
The emotional depth of her music is tangible. It’s not just about technique or tradition but an expression of her soul. Yun Fei believes that the universality of music lies in the emotions it encapsulates. She once mused that the reason music finds resonance globally is the shared human emotions nestled behind the notes. True to this belief, her compositions are poetic, echoing the tales of legendary heroes and resonating with the spirit of an age-old civilization.
And now, to the crown jewels of her recent discography: “Drum Zen,” “Joy,” and “Glory.” These tracks are enveloped in the Zhong Guo Feng musical atmosphere—a harmonious blend of ancient Chinese melodies and modern soundscapes. They invite listeners on a sensory journey, promising not just auditory but also visual pleasure. With melodies that gently unfurl, these compositions evoke a spectrum of emotions, from serene contentment to spirited jubilation.
The world got a taste of this visual-auditory spectacle with the September 28th premiere of the music video for “Joy” by W Films. Elevating the viewing experience, this music video utilizes cutting-edge 3D virtual reality technology, marrying the real with the surreal, resulting in a breathtaking aesthetic treat. As audiences across platforms from Apple Music to YouTube would attest, it’s an immersive dive into the heart of Chinese musical tradition, yet strikingly contemporary in its presentation.
Integral to this auditory masterpiece’s creation is the technical brilliance of Osmanthus Music Studio Canada. Their meticulous recording and synthesis processes have ensured that each note, each nuance of the “Song of the Drum” series, reaches listeners in its purest form.
As Yun Fei’s “Song of the Drum” series garners global acclaim, it’s clear that her music isn’t just about the past or the present but a timeless dance of cultures, eras, and emotions. In her rhythm, one can find the heartbeat of an ancient civilization, the aspirations of contemporary artists, and the promise of a harmonious future for music that bridges divides.
