Step into a world where ancient traditions come alive in the heart of New York City! Join us for our monthly cultural program—an evening where the soulful sounds of traditional Chinese music blend seamlessly with the elegant strokes of calligraphy.
May’s Highlight: The Spiritual Soundscape of Buddhism through Pipa
This month, immerse yourself in the meditative beauty of the Pipa as we explore the deep ties between music and Buddhism. Our featured musician Ian Zhao from Bard College Conservatory of Music will first talk about the deep connection between Pipa and Buddhism by analyzing Liu Dehai’s Religious Collection—a set of Buddhist-inspired masterpieces that resonate with spiritual depth and cultural reflection. Zhao will later perform his original Pipa compositions inspired by this influential work, offering a rare fusion of scholarship and musical artistry.
During the intermission, join our Mandarin Table to practice your Chinese conversation skills in a relaxed setting. Get hands-on with the art of Chinese calligraphy—no experience needed! We provide all the materials (ink, brush, and paper), plus guidance from native-speaking instructors and trained interns.
Enjoy tea and refreshments, connect with like-minded culture lovers, and let music, language, and art awaken your senses!
This program is in partnership with the US-China Music Institute of the Bard College Conservatory of Music.
