Meng-Heng Chen & Wei Xie

This programme explores the expressive range of the recorder repertoire of the 20th and 21st centuries – from Rubbra’s introspective meditations to the lively, modern sounds of Fortin and Meyer – culminating in a contemporary voice from Taiwan. Poulenc’s Flute Sonata, performed here in its entirety on the recorder, reveals a remarkable natural affinity: the clarity, agility and intimate tone colour of the instrument cast new light on the sonata’s lyrical lines and dramatic contrasts.

The concert is performed by recorder virtuoso Meng-Heng Chen and pianist Wei Xie, whose musical partnership is rooted in a special shared history: as doctoral students and flatmates at Boston University, they developed an artistic bond over more than 25 years that gives rise to a compelling musical dialogue.

Professor Meng-Heng Chen teaches at National Tsing Hua University in Taiwan and leads one of the largest recorder classes there.

To conclude, the audience will also enjoy a short guest performance by recorder students from Hsin-chu, presenting a recorder blues by Raphael Benjamin Meyer.