Silk Road Music: Lunar New Year Celebration

Phil Belanger holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Music from the University of British Columbia and has built an impressive career as a freelance drummer and percussionist in Vancouver. His versatility spans an array of musical styles, including rock, R&B, pop, jazz, Latin, Brazilian, and world music. Phil has collaborated with esteemed groups such as the Vancouver Symphony and Opera Orchestras, the Royal Winnipeg Ballet, Arts Club Theatre, CBC, and various choirs. His adaptability and talent shine in every project, making him a sought-after musician on both local and international stages.

Qiu Xia He is a pipa virtuoso and world music artist with over 40 years of experience. A graduate of the Xi’an Conservatory of Music in China, she has captivated audiences worldwide with her performances, blending traditional Chinese music with global influences. She has toured extensively with Silk Road Music, an award-winning ensemble she founded, and has collaborated with orchestras across North America and Europe. At Gateway Theatre, Qiu Xia will celebrate Lunar New Year through East Meets West. Qiu Xia believes in the power of music to connect cultures and inspire harmony, sharing her artistry to create meaningful connections across diverse audiences.

Jason Overy holds a Bachelor of Music in Performance from the University of Victoria. Since moving to Vancouver in 1996, he has toured internationally and performed with groups such as Uzume Taiko, OLAM, and the Band of the Fifteenth Field Regiment RCA. Jason has extensive musical theatre experience, including productions like Cabaret, The Rocky Horror Picture Show, and Urinetown. He’s played in West Coast funk, rock, blues, and ska bands, including Juno award-winning Kenny “Blues Boss” Wayne. An educator in drum set, hand drums, percussion, and taiko, Jason is also a third-degree black belt in Shotokan Karate.

André Thibault is a Montreal-born guitarist and multi-instrumentalist with over 30 years of experience. While his primary instrument is guitar, he has also mastered the oud, flutes, and hand percussion. A key member of several groundbreaking world-music ensembles, André has performed on prestigious stages around the globe. With six acclaimed albums, including Juno-nominated works, his career reflects a deep commitment to exploring and blending musical traditions. André’s dynamic performances and innovative approach make him a unique voice in the world-music scene, bridging cultures through sound.

Zhongxi Wu is a master of traditional Chinese wind instruments, including suona, sheng, and hulusi, with over three decades of professional experience. Born in northeastern China, he began learning at the age of eight under the guidance of his father and elder brother, both esteemed musicians. A graduate of the Heilongjiang College of Performing Arts, Zhong Xi was appointed lead suona player and composer for their Repertory Theatre. He has won numerous first prizes in music competitions and performed globally. Zhong Xi Wu brings his passion for blending traditional Chinese music with contemporary compositions to every performance.