Celebration of Asian music in the park

Chinese singer Gong Linna brings elegance and style to the Asia stage in Battersea Park, London, for BT River of Music. Mixing the opulent music tradition of her country with modern Western harmonies, Gong creates a contemporary Chinese art music full of innovation and prowess. With spellbinding vocals and the ability to "dig deep into the human soul" it is unsurprising that Gong is a pioneer in her homeland.

Jason Leung of Hong Kong and erhu (Chinese two-string fiddle) player Wang Tzu-Wen of Taiwan will join Gong Linna and her band on the Asia stage.

Battersea Park is one of London's most beautiful public spaces, full of hidden secrets and home of the Peace Pagoda (with its resident monk).

Over the weekend this stage will host performances and extraordinary collaborations from artists across Asia.

BT River of Music is part of the London 2012 Festival. The festival, a spectacular 12-week nationwide celebration bringing together leading artists from across the world, runs from midsummers day on June 21 until the final day of the Paralympic Games on Sept 9.

Date: July 21-22

Venue: The Asia Stage at Battersea Park, London

Website: www.btriverofmusic.com

(China Daily 07/20/2012 page31)