In Memory of Ryuichi Sakamoto 坂本龍一を偲んで
In this video, immerse yourself in a fusion of the traditional Chinese erhu and the timeless elegance of the western piano. This rendition of Ryuichi Sakamoto’s iconic composition for the 1983 film 'Merry Christmas, Mr. Lawrence' showcases the perfect harmony between these two instruments from distinct musical traditions.
The performance begins with the piano's evocative opening, setting a contemplative mood that draws listeners in. As the erhu joins in, its soulful tones add depth and an unmistakable Eastern charm, creating a beautifully unique blend that highlights the emotional essence of the piece.
With no autotune and minimal digital enhancements, this raw and authentic interpretation lets the natural resonance of the instruments shine, delivering a heartfelt tribute to Sakamoto’s masterpiece.
The Erhu used in the video:
eight-tones.store/products/cao-rong-1st-grade-aged-rosewood-erhu/
Purchase the music scores:
www.sheetmusicdirect.com/en-US/se/ID_No/1671100/Product.aspx
このビデオでは、中国の伝統楽器である二胡と西洋ピアノの永遠の優雅さが融合した演奏をお楽しみいただけます。1983年の映画『戦場のメリークリスマス』のために坂本龍一が作曲したこの象徴的な楽曲が、異なる音楽文化を持つ二つの楽器による完璧な調和を見事に表現しています。演奏はピアノの情感あふれる序奏から始まり、聴く人の心を引き込む瞑想的な雰囲気を作り出します。その後、二胡が加わり、その魂に響く音色が深みと独特な東洋の魅力を与え、この楽曲の感情的な本質を際立たせる美しい融合を生み出します。オートチューンは一切使用せず、デジタル加工も最小限に抑えたこの生々しく本格的な解釈は、楽器の自然な響きを最大限に引き出し、坂本龍一の名作への心のこもった賛辞を捧げています。
ビデオで使用された二胡：
eight-tones.store/products/cao-rong-1st-grade-aged-rosewood-erhu/
This video was filmed on 22nd October 2024 by our Eight Tones in-house production team.
The Write-Up of Merry Christmas, Mr. Lawrence:
Composed by Ryuichi Sakamoto for the 1983 film of the same name, "Merry Christmas, Mr. Lawrence" is a hauntingly beautiful piece blending Eastern and Western musical elements. Its delicate melody captures themes of hope, reconciliation, and humanity, making it resonate beyond the film.
Despite its origins in a war drama, the piece has become a beloved Christmas classic. Its emotive tone and seasonal title evoke a sense of peace and introspection, leading it to be featured in holiday playlists and performances worldwide. The melody of this piece has also been incorporated into the famous 'Watergate - Heart Of Asia', and also the K-pop idol song 'Supernova Love' by David Guetta and IVE. Sakamoto’s masterpiece continues to touch hearts, especially during the festive season.
Special Thanks To Our Team:
Erhu Musician - Aaron Ang
Piano Musician - Chee-Hang See
Music Composer - Ryuichi Sakamoto
Music Arranger - Chee-Hang See
Executive Producer and Director - Aaron Ang
Director of Photography - Adrian Loh
Set Design - Aaron Ang & Adrian Loh
Video Editor - Mervyn Tay
Video Editor & Colorist - Lim Shaoyong
Sound Recording Engineer - Lim Wei
First Camera - Lim Shaoyong
Second Camera - Amos Poh
Make-up - Cocoon Makeup
Costumes - Aaron Ang
Special thanks to Eliott Tordo and Sylvain Perdu
Filmed using the Red Komodo and Iron Glass Rehoused Soviet Lenses.
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eight-tones.com.sg/
theguzhengretailer.com/
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For any enquiries, you can email to contact@eight-tones.com.sg
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