THE MUSIC OF STRANGERS: YO-YO MA & THE SILK ROAD ENSEMBLE
A Must See Film Review by Ariadne Sawyer, MA
Be sure to catch this film which is opening at the Park Theatre in Vancouver on July 22nd. http://www.tribute.ca/showtimes/theatre/the-park-theatre/park/ for show times.
World Poetry is honored to be a Promotional Partner for the Music of Strangers.
The film is directed by Morgan Neville, director of the Academy Award-Winning 20 Feet From Stardom. The film follows an extraordinary group of musicians who have come together to celebrate the universal power of music. The Silk Road Ensemble, an international collective created by acclaimed cellist Yo-Yo Ma, exemplifies music’s ability to blur geographical boundaries, blend disparate cultures and inspire hope for both artists and audiences. Sources: The Archive and the Orchard plus PR by the Taro PR Group.
I absolutely loved this warm, life affirming film which also reflected the human suffering of mankind through wars and the loss of country. It showed the enthusiasm and persistence of the great cellist Yo-Yo Ma and his vision of bringing world musicians together to create a new sound and even a way of being. The idea of being “Cultural Citizens” may show us the way to celebrate our connectedness and free us from rigid boundaries.
Throughout the film, the wonderful joyfulness of Yo-Yo Ma infuses the film and brings the message of creation and hope.
Here are some memorable quotes from the film: “The power of art crosses out limitations.” “Tradition needs evolution or it gets smaller.” “Art is opening up to possibility.”
The guests I brought to the preview had some inspiring comments:
“The film will interest those wanting to learn more not only about music but about different cultures; instruments and their historical meanings from various regions; architecture around the world; and the harmony between sound and visual art.” Laura Kelsey.
“Music, the universal language of all, we learn, is a core facilitator, encouraging world citizens to realize mankind’s common purpose while seeking identity. Thereby, from the heart, we can, and need to work together, with shared hope and renewed energy, naturally transforming and harmonizing world cultures toward lasting peace. “Carla Evans.
“The film touches on real world issues and its effect on the creative culture of its peoples. One spoken line in the movie that stands out for me is that, “a culture must continue to grow or it will die.” This film reinforces the idea that music can contribute to the meeting of people of different cultures and continue to grow by contributing to each other. The film touched my heart and brought to my mind how we are all molded from the same clay.” Neall Ryon.
Invite your friends and family to see this wonderful film!
Thanks to Lauren Colt at TARO PR for source material.
