Thus It Is, Xavier Yunxuan Zhu's Solo Vocal Recital

Join Opera America, National Opera Center for an evening of evocative beauty as tenor Yunxuan Zhu and talented pianist Yichun Sheng to present a recital of art songs inspired by classical Chinese poetry. From ancient folk melodies to contemporary lyrical settings, this program weaves together themes of nature, love, memory, and destiny across centuries of verse.

The repertoire includes works drawn from Tang and Song dynasty poets such as Li Bai, Su Shi, and Li Qingzhao, alongside modern compositions that explore Chinese identity and nostalgia in a globalized world. Whether shaped by the vast grasslands of the north, the moonlit stillness of a palace chamber, or the distant echo of red beans and wild geese, each piece tells a story of emotion and cultural legacy.

With expressive vocal artistry and sensitive accompaniment, this recital offers a rare opportunity to experience the resonance of Chinese literature through the lens of Western classical voice.

Recital Programs

第一部分：山河与故乡 — 大地的抒情诗

Part I: Landscapes and Homeland – Songs of the Earth
敕勒歌 (The Song of the Tiele People)
父亲的草原母亲的河 (Father’s Grassland, Mother’s River)
鸿雁 (Wild Geese)
定风波（莫听穿林打叶声） (Serenity in the Storm)

第二部分：风雅与命运 — 古典诗心的回响
Part III: Reflections and Fate – Echoes of Classical China
清平乐·红笺小字 (Qingpingyue: Red-Lettered Note)
更漏子·玉炉香 (Genglouzi: Scent of the Jade Burner)
白头吟 (The White-Haired Lament)
红豆词 (Red Bean Song)

第三部分：尘世与情长 — 爱恋与思绪的呢喃

Part II: Emotions and Affection – Whispers of the Heart
越人歌 (The Song of the Yue Boatman)
眷恋
青玉案·元夕 (Qingyu Case: Lantern Festival)
相思 (Longing)
With encore two songs.

Program songs might be changed without notification.