Beyond Nashville: From China to Appalachia
In the heart of Maryland, within the vibrant creative nucleus of Strathmore, a profound musical connection has blossomed between three extraordinary musicians, transcending geographical boundaries and cultural divides. Grammy Award winners Cathy Fink and Marcy Marxer, alongside Chinese dulcimer virtuoso Chao Tian, have embarked on a captivating musical journey culminating in their eagerly awaited album, ‘From China to Appalachia’, set for release on August 16, 2024.
This ambitious project serves as a testament to their deep-seated commitment to cultural exchange, blending the rich tapestries of American and Chinese folk traditions with finesse and passion. Cathy Fink and Marcy Marxer, renowned for their musical partnership spanning over three decades, are celebrated for their mastery across a spectrum of instruments, including guitar, banjo, ukulele, and mandolin. Their repertoire transcends genres, encompassing everything from classic country to the spirited rhythms of gypsy jazz. Their performances have graced a myriad of stages, from intimate folk festivals to prestigious venues like the Library of Congress, earning them a steadfast reputation as musical trailblazers.
Chao Tian brings a unique voice to the trio with her virtuosity on the yangqin, a traditional Chinese hammered dulcimer revered for its shimmering tones and versatility. Tian’s journey with the yangqin began at the Middle and High School Affiliated to China Conservatory of Music, where her passion for traditional Chinese music took root. Today, as a PhD student at Boston University, she continues to push boundaries, exploring innovative intersections of music, dance, and visual art.
‘From China to Appalachia’ is not merely an album but a celebration of shared heritage and a testament to the universal language of music. The album weaves together a rich tapestry of songs, seamlessly blending traditional American folk tunes such as ‘High on the Mountain’ and ‘Ruby Are You Mad At Your Man’ with evocative Chinese melodies like ‘Nan Ni Wan’ and ‘Yongjun Yangko’. Each track serves as a musical bridge between two cultures, harmonising in ways that speak to the shared human experience across borders.
The trio’s collaborative efforts have garnered widespread recognition, culminating in the 2024 Wammie Music Award for Best World/Global Artist-Group from the Washington Area Music Association. Their performances, which have captivated diverse audiences and even gained viral acclaim on platforms like TikTok, exemplify their ability to unite listeners through their distinctive blend of musical styles.
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