Richard Danielpour's new cello concerto for Yo-Yo Ma is an exploration of the sounds and flavors along the famous Silk Road, which was originally pioneered by the Chinese. Stretching from Chang'an to Rome, this route was used for trade and cultural exchange for centuries.
What should we listen for?
Though you will hear the sounds of the santur (a box-like zither from Persia), the nay (a reed flute), the tabla (Indian drums), and the kamancheh (Persian spike fiddle), most of what you will hear is based solidly in the Western orchestral tradition. The solo cello part is quite virtuosic and thrilling in traditional concerto terms. As you encounter this new piece, ask students to consider Danielpour's blending of Western and Eastern traditions. What happens in this collision of musical styles? How would you describe Danielpour's style?
Try an activity!
Have students collect sounds or music that they consider outside of their own usual experience. After listening to these sounds or pieces of music, ask students to either 1) try to create versions of those sounds on their own instruments or voices or 2) mix the "exotic" music with more familiar music to create a sound collage. What is the effect of juxtaposing or blending styles?
