Composer Huang Ruo

This is a fascinating interview with the very smart, very creative avant-garde composer and conductor Huang Ruo. He is the Chinese-born creator of four operas, including the very successful Dr. Sun Yat-sen that recently had its US premiere in Santa Fe, and Paradise Interrupted shown in the 2015 Spoleto USA Festival (it will be soon at the Asia Society in New York City on April 5, 2016). This exclusive, in-person, must-read interview contains many interesting insights by one of the most talented contemporary composers in activity. It is Opera Lively's interview #173, done in the summer of 2015, but for various reasons it only now got transcribed and published, out of order. The delay doesn't detract from the content, given that Mr. Huang often talks about his music and opera in general rather than only about his exquisite piece that we were about to see when we met him in Charleston, SC. From him we can learn about ancient Chinese instruments, the state of opera in China, and the workings of his creative process, among other topics. Mr. Huang impressed us for his calm demeanor, relaxed and friendly style, and contagious smile. He patiently walked us through the complexity of his music. Enjoy!
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