Melodies of the Celestial Empire is the name of a vocal- instrumental-choreographic ensemble founded recently. It stands out from among a great many performing groups, being the only one to have familiarized Kyiv audiences with genuine traditional Ukrainian culture. Initiated by the Chinese Students Relief Center, this group consists of Chinese students enrolled in the capital’s creative institutions (Artistic Director Ni Vei Yun). Their two recent concerts featured numerous traditional instruments brought from China, including the string-and-bow arkhu (somewhat resembling the viola), qin (a long zither something like the harp), and the remarkably strong and timber-rich pumpkin fiddle and flute. The artistic director plans to add Ukrainian performers to the ensemble, so they can also represent Ukrainian culture when touring China.
The Melodies held a charitable soiree for Ukrainian physically handicapped children in February. It was a real holiday for the children. They were not only thrilled by the sounds of new instruments, but also had seriously prepared for the event. The Golden Hall of the Ukrainian Culture Fund was decorated with children’s drawings, needlework, and macramО’s reflecting Chinese motives. Their authors were rewarded with souvenirs presented by the wife of the Chinese Ambassador Hau Lingping. Among the souvenirs were traditional lanterns, symbolic hieroglyphs, porcelain figurines, even copies of the Black Horse stored at the Royal Palace.
The Melodies are preparing two performances dedicated to March 8, International Women’s Day, and April 1, the Day of Chinese Culture in Ukraine this year.
