Tan Dun Brings Martial Arts Trilogy to Hollywood Bowl

Film has usually been about the music. Even when the actors were silent, there was sound guiding the action. Who doesn’t get chills when they hear that iconic “Star Wars” intro, or when Celine Dion belts out “My Heart Will Go On?” Memorable movies are just as great as their scores, and that’s why composer Tan Dun is being highlighted this month at the Hollywood Bowl.

Fifteen years ago, Ang Lee put out “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon.” The movie was garnered as one of the year’s best and all these years later is still regarded as such. It also took martial arts movie to a completely new level. Some of that success was due to Tan Dun’s musical contribution. Dun will serve as the evening’s conductor and will be accompanied by the Los Angeles Philharmonic with Zhang Zuo on the piano, Ray Chen holding down the violin and Johannes Moser on the cello. It’s an ensemble oozing with talent, so those who appreciate a gifted night of music will appreciate what Dun has in store for sound.

Originally, the music was performed by the Shanghai Symphony Orchestra with many pieces by the great cellist Yo-Yo Ma. The soundtrack went on to win a handful of awards that include “Best Music” at the 54th British Academy Film Awards, “Best Original Score” at the Chicago Film Critics Association Awards, a Golden Globe for “Best Original Score,” a coveted Oscar at the 73rd Academy Awards and more from around the world.

Then there are those who are movie buffs, those who love every aspect of film right down to the last credit. Well the good news for those people is that this isn’t just a night celebrating the music, but the sights as well. The scenes the music belong to will be projected on the big screen to go with the music Dun and the musicians play throughout the night. Fans can expect “Hero Concerto,” “Crouching Tiger Concerto,” The Triple Resurrection” and more.

Tan Dun’s Martial Arts Trilogy is at the Hollywood Bowl August 13. Tickets can be purchased here.