Music for violin and piano and solo violin by Yuanlin Chen

This album features the world premiere recordings of solo violin and violin and piano compositions by Chinese-American composer Yuanlin Chen (b. 1957). The repertoire on this project includes the solo composition Du Bai for Violin Solo, the duets Sonatina for Violin and Piano, Rhapsody for Violin and Piano, Springhead, Two Prose Poems for Violin and Piano, and Four Miniatures for Violin and Piano.

Yuanlin Chen, a renowned composer from mainland China, remains relatively unknown in the larger world despite his significant musical contributions. This recording project aims to address this issue by showcasing his talent and musical works. Yuanlin Chen's compositions serve as valuable representatives of Chinese music and deserve consideration as concert repertoire.

The overarching aim is to contribute to the broadening of the Chinese repertoire available to violinists. The project unfolds in two distinct parts. The initial segment involves the recording compositions by Yuanlin Chen, featuring performances by myself and pianist Meijing Tian. The subsequent section is comprised of a descriptive analysis that serves as a listener’s and performer’s guide, delving into the composer’s background, offering a thoughtful discussion of the repertoire, providing detailed liner notes for each musical piece, and presenting a concise interview transcript with the composer elucidating his creative ideas. The inclusion of these elements aims to offer a holistic understanding and appreciation of Chen's musical contributions.