Dive into the enchanting realm of Nine Songs, a captivating musical composition by the acclaimed composer Tan Dun. Born from the rich tapestry of ancient Chinese poetry, this piece draws its inspiration from the eponymous poems penned by the revered poet Qu Yuan. Originally conceived as a performance intertwining dance, music, and drama, Nine Songs resonates with the profound beauty of nature and the enigmatic allure of shamanistic rituals. These very elements deeply connected with Tan Dun, echoing his upbringing in a remote rural landscape. In crafting Nine Songs, Tan Dun unearthed and explored the liberating ideas within Qu Yuan’s verses, embarking on a creative journey that began with the familiar, rooted in the materials he intimately knew and cherished.
The dramatic architecture of Nine Songs defies conventional narrative, venturing into a surreal and evocative soundscape. The libretto, a masterful blend of multiple languages, transcends literal meaning, becoming an abstract yet integral component of the musical narrative. It builds upon the ritualistic foundation of the original poetry, forgoing linear dramatic progression between sections. Instead, the focus intensifies on the intricate evolution within each distinct movement. This ritualistic essence of Qu Yuan’s work permeates the very fabric of the score. Notably, in the opening passage, the conductor assumes the role of a shaman, guiding both musicians and audience into the performance through vocal cues and gestural direction, continuing this shamanistic guidance throughout.
Through these artistic choices, Nine Songs aspires to articulate the age-old symbiosis between nature, spirit, and humanity – the very essence of Qu Yuan’s poetic vision. Tan Dun hoped that this composition would resonate with contemporary audiences in a world fraught with turmoil, offering a sense of openness, yearning, the poignant weight of destiny, and a quest for beauty in its myriad forms. —Tan Dun October, 1990
This remarkable title, initially released under the CRI label, is now accessible as a burn-on-demand CD (CD-R) or as a digital download in MP3/320, FLAC, or WAV formats. CD-Rs are provided in protective sleeves, without a print booklet or jewel case. Liner notes are available through the link provided above.
