Lumiere Celebrates Lunar New Year with Harmony Across Borders

Chamber group's debut concert bridges cultures through traditional Chinese, Taiwanese, and Korean folk songs

Mar. 11, 2026 at 5:33am

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Lumiere, a newly formed chamber group, presented its debut concert on February 17 in celebration of the Lunar New Year. The program featured traditional Chinese, Taiwanese, and Korean folk songs, offering an evening that moved audiences to tears and bridged cultures through music. The ensemble, which brings together artists of distinct yet complementary backgrounds, aims to inspire, empower, and connect communities through performances and outreach.

Why it matters

Lumiere's Lunar New Year concert stood apart from conventional Western chamber concerts, highlighting heritage, identity, and shared humanity. The carefully curated program celebrated cultural identity while inviting audiences of all backgrounds to experience the emotional depth of these melodies, fostering connection and uplifting audiences through music.

The details

The evening featured beloved traditional works including two Spring Festival songs from China, three songs from Taiwanese composer Tyzen Hsiao, the Korean folk song Arirang, and the timeless classic The Moon Represents My Heart. The pre-performance introductions provided personal and cultural context for each piece, enhancing the audience's appreciation and emotional connection to the music.

  • Lumiere presented its debut concert on February 17, 2026.
  • The ensemble was founded in 2026.

The players

Ting-Chen Chen

Taiwanese cellist and educator, versatile performer whose repertoire spans classical to contemporary scores. Served as Cello Principal for the Horizon Ensemble and active recording artist in pop and film industries. Serves on the faculty of Arlington High School and the Boston Music Project.

Sing-Shen Lin

Taiwanese violinist and educator, prizewinner in multiple international competitions. Appeared with ensembles including the Boston Civic Symphony and the Boston Philharmonic Orchestra. Bridges performance and pedagogy, bringing artistry and enthusiasm to audiences and students.

Hyunju Jung

Korean pianist with an international performance career, highlighted by appearances at Carnegie Hall and the San Francisco Opera House. Prizewinner in numerous international competitions. Holds a Doctor of Musical Arts degree from Boston University and serves on the piano faculty at Brookline Music School.

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What’s next

In the coming season, Lumiere will tour across the United States, presenting free concerts to local communities as part of their outreach initiative. Through performance, education, and cultural exchange, the trio seeks to foster meaningful connections and empower audiences, demonstrating the transformative power of music.

The takeaway

Lumiere's Lunar New Year concert celebrated cultural identity and invited audiences of all backgrounds to experience the emotional depth of traditional Chinese, Taiwanese, and Korean folk songs. The ensemble's meaningful cultural collaboration and mission to inspire, empower, and connect communities through music highlight the power of music to bridge divides and foster unity.