‘A dazzling virtuosic soloist.’
San Francisco Chronicle

‘An exhilarating performance, a showcase for an orchestra on top form.’
The Guardian

Pipa virtuoso and composer Gao Hong reaches a striking new artistic pinnacle with Symphony of Self, a suite of four original concertos that showcase the remarkable expressive range of the pipa. Drawing on the ancient Pudong pipa tradition while embracing the breadth and colour of a full Western orchestra, Gao crafts a richly textured sound world where centuries-old artistry meets bold contemporary imagination. Recorded at the legendary Abbey Road Studios with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, these concertos reimagine the Chinese lute for the modern symphonic stage, offering a fresh and dynamic perspective on an instrument rarely heard in this context. Symphony of Self reflects Gao Hong’s lifelong dedication to innovation, cultural connection, and musical storytelling, celebrating a career defined by curiosity, artistry, and boundary-crossing creativity.

Lin Shicheng Dragon Boat《龍船》
Gao Hong Flying Dragon Concerto《飛龍·》
Gao Hong Guangxi Impression《廣西印象》
Gao Hong Reminiscences《故園情》
Gao Hong Yue Xing (‘Musical Journey’)《樂·行》

Gao Hong pipa
Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra
Michael Poll conductor