Chinese Folk Music Creates Melodic Bridges in Budapest Concert

Chinese Folk Music Enchants Budapest

On May 16, 2025, a remarkable concert featuring original pieces inspired by Chinese folk music was held at the Hungarian Congress Center in Budapest. Composed by Jason Huang from the southern Chinese province of Guangdong, the event offered a unique mélange of Eastern traditions blended with Western orchestration, captivating the audience with its diverse sound.

Following a successful performance at the Franz Liszt Academy of Music in November 2024, Huang returned to Hungary with his concert titled "Infinity" in collaboration with the Budapest Orchestra and Choir, under the direction of the esteemed conductor Péter Illényi. The concert program, presented by the Guangdong Federation of Literary and Artistic Circles with organizational support from the Guangdong Music Association, showcased several newly composed works, including a symphonic piece featuring the French horn, inspired by ink wash painting depicting the picturesque Seven Star Cliffs in Guangdong.

"This is pentatonic music, which we do not have in our classical tradition," Illényi remarked. "It is something new and quite challenging for us." He noted that the inclusion of Chinese instruments and musical aesthetics provided the orchestra with a refreshing and enriching experience. Attendees described the concert as a sophisticated event of a very high caliber.

Many audience members indicated they were unfamiliar with Chinese music prior to the performance but left profoundly impressed and eager to learn more. One Hungarian concert-goer expressed, "Unfortunately, I didn't know much about Chinese music, but after this evening, I really enjoy it."

This performance reflects the growing cultural exchange between China and Hungary. An employee from the Széchényi National Library observed that cultural ties between Chinese and Hungarian institutions have been expanding in recent years, labeling the mutual relationship as "fantastic." Illényi echoed this sentiment, stating, "Through this concept, we can demonstrate that music builds bridges between China and Hungary, between European and Chinese cultures." He added that the orchestra plans to bring similar concerts to audiences in other countries soon, reinforcing the global nature of this artistic exchange.

This concert not only celebrates Chinese folk music but also symbolizes a broader cultural dialogue, demonstrating how art can foster understanding among different nations and enhance the appreciation of diverse musical traditions. As the lights dimmed and the last notes lingered in the air, the atmosphere was charged with a sense of unity and shared appreciation for culture, echoing Illényi's belief in the bridging power of music.