Kathmandu:

Nepali music aficionados had a tryst with Bian Liunian, better known as the ‘Chinese Music Wizard’ among his friends, at the inner courtyard of Patan Museum on April 30. The renowned Chinese artiste swept the audience off their feet, as he unravelled his prowess with the Chinese musical instrument — erhu. The concert was organised by Nepal Music Center in association with Nepal Tourism Board.

After the opening performance by the four-member band Vajra, the Chinese performer took the stage only to be greeted with rounds of applause after each performance. Apart from a solo performance, he also played with the traditional Nepali band Vajra. The one-and-half-hour programme comprised seven instrumental pieces, with Bian and Vajra jamming in the last four. The artiste’s spell all the while remained intact.

Bian is the director of Dongfeng Oriental Dance Troupe, Beijing. He is also a leading personality in the New Folk Music of China, which basically amalgamates modern technology and elements from different countries with traditional Chinese music.

Bian, who is in his mid-forties, says he believes in being adventurous and always looks for something new in his music.

For the last 10 years, he has been the musical director general and composer for China Central Television (CCTV) Festival TV production. He is also a member of the Beijing 2008 Olympic Committee responsible for the musical production for opening and closing ceremonies. “I heard about Nepal as a child in school. The music is very good here. It’s a magical country and I am very glad to be playing here,” Bian said.

He will also be performing in Pokhara on May 3 and at the Russian Culture Centre on May 5.