This Sunday evening, Mei Diyang, the first Chinese principal of the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra (BPO), will present a unique interpretation of Bach’s “Cello Suites” — on the viola.

Mei Diyang

Bach, a master of German Baroque music with enormous influence on later composers, composed the six suites for unaccompanied cello between approximately 1717 and 1723. 

Three centuries later, they remain among the most iconic works in the cello repertoire and a core part of every professional cellist’s repertoire. Often regarded as the “Bible” of the cello, this collection stands as one of the most structurally rigorous and emotionally profound solo works in music history.

For this concert, Mei will adjust the chronological sequence of the pieces to take the audience on a journey from simplicity to complexity, saving the most technically demanding pieces for last.

The distinctive tone of the viola — combining the richness of the cello with a touch of warmth in the mid-range — is sure to lend this group of classic works a fresh and more introspective charm.

Mei previously served as the principal violist of the Munich Philharmonic Orchestra before becoming the BPO’s principal violist in October 2022.

Since his success at the 2018 ARD International Music Competition, where he won first prize in the viola category, the Audience Prize, and several special awards, Mei has continued to advance his international career. His first solo album, “Transforming Viola,” was released in 2019, followed by his second, “Viola à L’école de Paris,” in June 2022.

Particularly adept at interpreting lyrical works from the Romantic era, Mei has won over audiences with his superb technique and profound musicality, bringing renewed attention to the viola — a string instrument often overlooked, with relatively few solo works dedicated to it.

As he turns 31, Mei describes the concert as a special birthday gift to himself.

“Solitude is unavoidable when performing solo,” he shared. “Yet it also offers a rare opportunity to engage in a profound dialogue with the audience, with the composer, and with one’s inner self.”

Come to the Shenzhen Concert Hall to immerse yourself in the musical universe of this young virtuoso, and rediscover Bach’s classics through the warm and distinctive voice of the viola.

Time: 7:30 p.m., Nov. 30

Tickets: 80-380 yuan

Venue: Shenzhen Concert Hall, Futian District (福田區深圳音樂廳)

Metro: Line 3 or 4 to Children’s Palace Station (少年宮站), Exit D