Experience the captivating artistry of Zhi-Jong Wang and her innovative chamber orchestra, Ensemble Epoch, with their latest album release, “Dances”. Founded in 2021 by graduates of the prestigious Shanghai Conservatory of Music, Ensemble Epoch is redefining the boundaries of classical music performance. “Dances” brings together an eclectic mix of compositions and arrangements, showcasing the ensemble’s remarkable versatility and unity.
From the ethereal beauty of Shen Ye’s “Prelude” to the vibrant rhythms of Bartók’s “Romanian Folk Dances,” this album is a testament to the ensemble’s dynamic range. The imaginative arrangements by contemporary composers Shen Ye and Dai Weiyi breathe new life into beloved classics such as Tchaikovsky’s “Nutcracker Suite” and Brahms’ “Hungarian Dances”. The album culminates in a breathtaking rendition of Manuel de Falla’s “Ritual Fire Dance,” demonstrating the ensemble’s exceptional skill and passion.
Zhi-Jong Wang’s visionary leadership and violin artistry paired with the ensemble’s cohesive performance style create a unique listening experience that transcends traditional classical music forms. Each track on “Dances” is a journey into a world of musical exploration, where the intimate connection between musicians and audience comes alive.
Shen Ye
Prelude
Béla Bartók
Romanian Folk Dances
Transcript for violin and piano by Zoltán Székely
Orchestra part arr. by Dai Weiyi
Pyotr I. Tchaikovsky
Selection from “The Nutcracker”
arr. by Shen Ye
Johannes Brahms
Hungarian Dances Nos. 1-7, 17, 19, 20
Transcript for violin and piano by Joseph Joachim
Orchestra parts arr. by Dai Weiyi and Shen Ye
Manuel de Falla
Ritual Fire Dance
arr. by Dai Weiyi
Zhi-Jong Wang, violin
Ensemble Epoch
