Marking the 150th anniversary of the birth of Arnold Schoenberg, the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK), Shenzhen, recently hosted a unique international conference and performance. Esteemed as a pivotal figure in 20th-century composition, Schoenberg’s work continues to evoke strong reactions, often seen as a Marmite figure in the realm of music. The conference’s centerpiece was the performance of ‘Schoenberg in Hollywood’ by American composer Tod Machover, depicting the life and struggles of Schoenberg as he navigates his new life in America.
The opera, having debuted in Boston and performed in Vienna, found its third stage in Shenzhen, thanks to Ping Jin, associate dean of CUHK-Shenzhen’s School of Music, and the avid support of the Arnold Schoenberg Centre. Machover, known for his boundary-pushing works like ‘The Brain Opera,’ brought a unique perspective to Schoenberg’s story, exploring themes of identity, exile, and belonging.
The performance, set in 1935, revolves around a meeting between Schoenberg and film producer Irving Thalberg, with connections leading back to China through Thalberg’s film ‘The Good Earth.’ Despite Schoenberg’s genius, his confrontational personality often led to clashes, a trait that resonated with Machover and was emphasized in the opera.
Despite its ambitious nature and short preparation time, the performance captivated the audience with its blend of historical narrative, cultural introspection, and musical innovation. The opera’s staging in Shenzhen was tailored to the local context, omitting references unfamiliar to the Chinese audience, such as the Marx Brothers, and focusing on more universal themes of displacement and identity.
The opera’s reception in Shenzhen was different from previous performances, reflecting cultural nuances and the audience’s eagerness to engage with new musical expressions. Despite challenges during rehearsals, the cast, comprising mostly Chinese artists, delivered a performance that was both intimate and powerful. The portrayal of Schoenberg’s journey as a refugee and his quest for identity resonated with the audience, highlighting the universal relevance of his story.
Machover’s visit to China for this event was not just a musical journey but a cultural exchange, opening dialogues about art, society, and humanity. ‘Schoenberg in Hollywood’ in Shenzhen stands as a testament to the power of music and theatre to bridge cultural gaps and explore shared human experiences. The event marks a significant milestone in global artistic collaboration, shedding new light on Schoenberg’s legacy and its contemporary relevance.
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