In commemoration of the 25th anniversary in Taiwan, Canadian musician Matthew Lien invited his friends from overseas to visit Taiwan and experience its culture and friendliness. His friends include Canadian violinist Alana Martinson, guitarist Elijah Bekk, mixing engineer Todd Hooge, and more.
Witness the world music event of the year featuring Matthew Lien’s exploration of Asian music and cultures from Taiwan!
In 1998, Canadian world music artist Matthew Lien traveled to Taiwan following the success of his album “Bleeding Wolves” on the island. The trip initiated the environmental musician’s 25-year love affair with Taiwan’s breathtaking nature, traditional music and native instruments like the erhu, huqin and bamboo flute. "The Sound From Taiwan" celebrates the 25th anniversary of Lien’s first visit, interspersing footage from Lien’s anniversary concert in Duli, Taitung with Hakka, Hokkien and Indigenous sounds exclusive to the island.
Lien’s music reflects his passion and deep respect for Taiwan’s sonic tapestry, combining sounds from his native Canada with elements of Asian music to create a rich fusion of global musical traditions. Taiwan is home to Hakka, Hokkien and Indigenous peoples, and each community contributes something different to the island’s soundscape. Despite cultural differences, these diverse ethnic groups live harmoniously in Taiwan and continue to pass down their traditions from generation to generation. Witness conversations and performances with local Taiwanese musicians and artists, who share the histories and meanings underlying their cultures’ vibrant traditions.
Hsinchu’s Hakka bayin temple music is featured alongside traditional Taiwanese opera music from Yilan. Indigenous Bunun and Amis musicians also perform in concert with Lien’s band, which features Taiwanese native drums, percussion, strings and wind instruments. The performances are a sight and sound to behold, echoing the deep respect for ancestry, community and the natural environment intrinsic to Taiwanese Indigenous ways of life. Join us to witness this once-in-a-lifetime performance and celebrate the rich natural beauty and cultures of the beautiful island of Taiwan.
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