Set against the rich cultural backdrop of China, the classical concert—part of the ‘VIP Classical – China Edition’ series, organized by SAMIT Event Group under the patronage of the Embassy of China in the United Arab Emirates, offers a unique evening of refined artistry, celebrating the International Day for Dialogue Among Civilizations.

SAMIT is the premier Event & PR management group leading the expansion of global arts and cultural heritage throughout the Middle East. Specialising in producing significant events in classical music, opera, theatre, and performance arts, SAMIT creates platforms where international talent and regional audiences connect. With this project, guests are invited to a distinctive and intimate concert experience, allowing close interaction with the artists in an exclusive private setting.

At the heart of the evening are two exceptional musicians—cellist LiLa and pianist Qiuning Huang, whose performance brings to life the lyrical beauty of Chinese aesthetics, international resonance, and youthful vitality. Their artistry, deeply rooted in the elegance of traditional Chinese culture, transcends borders, fostering a meaningful dialogue among civilizations and illuminating the timeless voice of Chinese art in a modern global context.

A graduate of the prestigious Kronberg Academy, LiLa has risen swiftly on the international stage, celebrated for her rare musical depth and expressive virtuosity. She is a laureate of several major competitions, including the Tchaikovsky International Competition for Young Musicians and the Antonio Janigro International Cello Competition. Her performances have captivated audiences at esteemed venues such as the Zürich Tonhalle, Shanghai Oriental Arts Center, and Moscow Tchaikovsky Concert Hall, alongside orchestras including the Verbier Chamber Orchestra, Tokyo Symphony Orchestra, and China NCPA Orchestra.

She is joined by Qiuning Huang, a collaborative pianist whose sensitive and insightful interpretations provide a perfect complement to LiLa’s dynamic tone. Their shared cultural roots add profound depth to their music, drawing inspiration from Chinese poetry, philosophy, and tradition. Together, they craft a program that celebrates the expressive power of the cello and the enduring beauty of classical music.

This exclusive evening promises an unforgettable journey through sound, culture, and emotion, infused with the richness of Chinese heritage and uniting diverse audiences through the universal language of music.

PROGRAM

PART 1

Xiaogang Ye
Poem of China, for Cello and Piano, Op.15

Dmitri Shostakovich
Cello Sonata in D Minor, Op.40
I. Allegro non troppo
II. Allegro
III. Largo
IV. Allegro

INTERMISSION

PART 2

Bright Sheng
Seven Tunes Heard in China, for Cello Solo
I. Seasons (Qinghai, China)
II. Guessing Song (Yunnan, China)
III. The Little Cabbage (Hebei, China)
IV. The Drunken Fisherman (Classical)
V. Diu Diu Dang (Taiwan, China)
VI. Pastoral Ballade (Inner Mongolia, China)
VII. Tibetan Dance (Xizang, China)

Ludwig van Beethoven
Cello Sonata No.5 in D Major, Op.102, No.2
I. Allegro con brio
II. Adagio con molto sentimento d’affetto
III. Allegro