From Formosa: Taiwan Philharmonic Chamber Ensemble 2026 US Tour at Camelback Bible Church

Program Description:

Celebrating “America250” and Taiwanese American Heritage Week, Taiwan Philharmonic proudly presents "From Formosa," a premier cultural diplomacy tour showcasing Taiwan’s rich musical tapestry. Led by Concertmaster Hao-Tun Teng and an elite chamber ensemble, the performance features acclaimed pianist Chun-Chieh Yen and the soulful voices of the TBT (Taiwu Ballads Troupe).

The program weaves together Tyzen Hsiao’s Aboriginal Suite, contemporary Hakka works, and a world premiere by Ke-Chia Chen. In a heartfelt tribute to the land, the Phoenix performance features a special collaboration with the legendary Native American flutist, R. Carlos Nakai.

Beyond the stage, the event joins forces with the Taiwanese Pop-up Fair to offer an immersive Taiwanese lifestyle experience. From ancient indigenous chants to modern chamber music, this celebration showcases Taiwan’s artistic excellence while building a bridge of deep friendship and intercultural dialogue between Taiwan and the United States.

Program:

Taiwanese Indigenous Polyphonic Songs

Taiwanese Indigenous Music for String Quartet & Chorus (arr. by Ting-Chuan Chen)

Ke-Chia Chen: Commissioned Work of Taiwanese Indigenous for Piano Quintet (world premiere)

Tyzen Hsiao: The Highlander’s Suite for Piano Quintet

Hakka Music for String Quartets (world premiere)

James DeMars: Lake That Speaks for Native American Flute and Chamber Ensemble

Aaron Copland: Two Pieces for String Quartet

Amazing Grace for Native American and Chamber Ensemble

Artists:

Hao-Tun Teng, Yi-Ju Chen, violin

Jubel Chen, viola

Yi-Shien Lien, cello

Chun-Chieh Yen, piano

TBT (Taiwu Ballads Troupe)

R. Carlos Nakai, Native American flute

Note:

14:00: Doors Open (Taiwanese Pop-up Fair starts in the church lobby)

15:00: Concert Starts

** Each ticket can be exchanged for $10 worth of market merchandise.**

- Supervised by: Council of Indigenous Peoples; Hakka Affairs Council

- Sponsored by: TSMC Education & Culture Foundation

- Event sponsored by: I-MEI Culture and Education Foundation

- Event Partner: National Cultural Association of Taiwan

- Special thanks: UUINJIU ZHEN NAN