For the sake of art

Chen Qigang (center) with cellist Gautier Capucon and conductor Lyu Jia at the National Center for the Performing Arts in Beijing on Oct 18.[Photo provided to China Daily]

A week before the world premiere of his new work, Itineraire d'une illusion for orchestra, Chen Qigang made a decision that shocked many.

The work－earlier scheduled to be staged last week at the National Center for the Performing Arts in Beijing and performed during the North American tour of the NCPA orchestra from Saturday to Nov 7－has been canceled by the composer.

Chen's previous work, Reflet d'un Temps Disparu for cello and orchestra, and his symphony variation work Luan Tan will replace Itineraire d'une illusion.

"I made the decision after watching the rehearsals. I apologized to the band. It's just not what I want. It's so disappointing," says Chen. "I am aware that my decision will cause a lot of trouble but the inconvenience can be ignored for the sake of art."

Itineraire d'une illusion is Chen's second symphony variation work after Luan Tan. In the past six months, he revised the score many times but wasn't satisfied.

Chen says he wanted to create music that would depart from his usual style.

"It's the first time for me to cancel the scheduled premiere of my work. But for artists, it's important to acknowledge wrong ideas and start all over again. I will not give up Itineraire d'une illusion. I am still working on it," says Chen, adding that the anticipating audience could wait a little longer.