The Performance venue was the Esplanade Concert Hall, which is usually utilized for orchestral performances, rendering this duet performance special. The brilliant acoustics of the hall allowed the soloistic sounds of the two instruments to blend while still retaining their individual colours – the smooth perfection of Feng Ning’s violin and the bright drumming of Lim Yan’s piano.

Both players maintained a relaxed composure, especially Feng Ning with his comfortable posture, and positioned themselves strategically in the middle of the stage, thus filling the space and making their presence felt.

2) Number of players

There were only two players in this concert, forming a violin-piano duet. Although it was a clichéd and oft-repeated combination, Feng Ning and Lim Yan broke frontiers with their extraordinary coordination and fiery interpretations, thus introducing new life to the pieces.

3) Instrumentation

a) The Violin

A predominantly European instrument that was believed to have evolved in Central Asia or the Middle East and reached the height of its making in Cremona, Italy. Noted makers include Antonio Stradivarius and Andrea Amati. The Violin used by Feng Ning is not specified.

b) The Piano

Also a predominantly European instrument, the piano, or pianoforte, evolved from the harpsichord and clavichord of the baroque period. Noted present-day makers include Steinway , Kawai and Yamaha. The Piano used at the Esplanade is not specified.