Biography
- Sheng is known for incorporating traditional Chinese music techniques with modern music and Western influences.
- In 1991, the White House (President Clinton) commissioned “Three Songs for Pipa and Cello” in honor of visiting Chinese Premiere Zhu, Rongji, which was performed by Wu Man and Yo Yo Ma.
- The Hungarian composer Béla Bartók is one of Sheng’s most notable influences.
- When Sheng was younger, his home’s piano was confiscated by the Red Guards during the Chinese Cultural Revolution. He then learned piano using his school’s piano.
- Studied composition with Leonard Bernstein and served as his assistant from 1985 until Bernstein’s death in 1990.
Famous Works
Listen to Sheng
These pieces made Bright Sheng famous all around the world. Press a Listen button and hear the music for yourself!
China Dreams
Spring Dreams
Red Silk Dance
Tibetan Swing
