The noted Chinese composer Chen Gang has died aged 91.

Chen Gang was born in Shanghai in 1935 and studied both with his father and at the Shanghai Conservatory with Ding Shande. While still a student he collaborated in the composition of what was to become one of the most popular pieces among Chinese audiences, The Butterfly Lovers Concerto.

The concerto’s title alludes to an ill-fated couple who could be together only in death, transformed into butterflies. It continues to enjoy an exceptionally wide popularity to this day. Written originally for solo violin and Western orchestra, it follows the tragic story of two lovers, known from regional Chinese opera, in an attractive and familiar Chinese musical language, the violin to some extent imitating the Chinese er-hu (two-string fiddle).

Chen Gang also wrote a later concerto on the story of Wang Zhaojun, the Emperor’s favourite concubine who was sacrificed for political expediency. Chen’s discography contains numerous performances of his works on the Marco Polo and Naxos labels.

All at Naxos extend their condolences to Chen Gang’s family and to the many who benefited from his distinguished influence.

Chen Gang Biography & Discography