Erhu to Cantopop: Five Thousand Springs of Chinese Sound

Embark on a vivid musical journey spanning thousands of years of Chinese music. Led by Vancouver Chinese Music Ensemble’s Resident Composer Alan Lau, Artistic Director Jirong Huang, and members of the VCME, this talk invites audiences to discover the rich evolution and enduring aesthetics of Chinese music from multiple cultural and historical perspectives through stories, sound, and live performance.

This talk will also discuss the development of Cantopop, with special emphasis to pay homage to the work of the legendary composer Joseph Koo Ka-fai (顧嘉煇, 1931–2023)—widely celebrated as the “Father of Cantopop.” Afterwards, participants will have the rare opportunity to interact directly with the musicians and enjoy hands-on experiences with these traditional instruments.

Event Details:
Date: Saturday, April 11, 2026
Location: Chinese Canadian Museum (51 E Pender St.)
Time & Schedule:
2 P.M. – Doors
2:30 to 4:30 P.M. – Panel talk with the Vancouver Chinese Music Ensemble
Cost: Museum admission required. Talk is free. 
Register: Purchase tickets here
This event will be conducted primarily in English.

This event is presented in collaboration with the Vancouver Chinese Music Ensemble with support from the Canada Council and the Province of British Columbia. This program is part of the public programming for Dream Factory: Cantopop Mandopop 1980s-2000.