Exchange: From Imperial Courts to Padi Fields – Reed-Pipes of Asia

KhaenScape is an ensemble born of dynamic international collaboration, uniting artists from Northern Illinois University (NIU) and Kalasin College of Dramatic Arts, Thailand. This special gathering was created for Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay’s A Tapestry of Sacred Music to celebrate the spiritual and healing traditions of Isaan performance culture.

The partnership was formed through artistic exchange during the COVID-19 pandemic, when musicians from Thailand and the United States began sharing knowledge virtually. NIU is one of three universities in the United States offering Thai music courses, with Isaan music recognised both academically and in performance practice as a distinctive field of study.

A significant catalyst in this collaboration was renowned female khaen artist and YouTuber Wimonrat, who was invited to teach khaen performance techniques to NIU students. From that initial exchange, the partnership expanded into ongoing cross-cultural lessons, research dialogues, and co-performances presented in Thailand and internationally.

Rooted in the sacred healing tradition of mor lam phii fa, the ensemble presents authentic ritual repertoire while also exploring contemporary interpretations. Beyond traditional performance, members of the collaboration have formed the contemporary ensemble NURR, active in the Chicagoland area, blending the khaen with electronic and new media technologies.

Through preservation and innovation, KhaenScape seeks to ensure that the khaen, the iconic bamboo instrument of Isaan culture, continues to resonate with new generations worldwide.

Kevin Cheng is currently a Sheng musician with the Singapore Chinese Orchestra (SCO). A First Class Honours graduate of the Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts (HKAPA), his artistry was shaped under the tutelage of renowned masters including Cheng Tak-wai, Loo Sze-wang, Hu Tianquan, and Weng Zhenfa.

Originally from Hong Kong, Kevin’s career is marked by a series of prestigious accolades and high-profile solo appearances. A particular highlight of his performing career was his featured solo recital at the 51st Hong Kong Arts Festival (2023). Notable performances include the world premieres of Phang Kok Jun’s Finger Dance, Canton Ballad and 5D!, and his performance of Tang Lok-yin’s Sheng concerto Volcanicity with the Singapore Chinese Orchestra (2023). His repertoire also includes by the premiere of Ng Cheuk-yin’s The Seventh Month as a soloist with both the Singapore Chinese Orchestra (2016) and the HKAPA Chinese Orchestra (2018). Other significant appearances include Kwan Nai-chung’s Peacock and Keith Hon’s Groovy II with the HKAPA Symphony Orchestra (2011 & 2014), and Qian Zhaoxi’s Tianshan Rhapsody with the Hong Kong Youth Chinese Orchestra (2011).

His recital credits span major venues such as the Hong Kong City Hall, Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay and Yale-NUS College. He has also been a featured guest on international platforms such as the Setouchi International Arts Festival and the Singapore International Festival of Arts.

Beyond the stage, Kevin is a pivotal pedagogue within the arts scene. He currently directs the Chinese Orchestras at Anglo-Chinese School (Barker Road), Fuhua Secondary School, Catholic High School (Primary), and Rosyth School. Under his baton, these ensembles have consistently attained the Distinction award at the Singapore Youth Festival (SYF) Arts Presentation, shaping the future of the Chinese orchestral movement in Singapore. Furthermore, his Sheng students have achieved sustained success in the local circuit, frequently clinching top prizes and championships at the Singapore Chinese Music Competition (SCMC), cementing his reputation as a premier educator in the field.

Kevin’s commitment to music education is further reflected in his roles as the Vice Chairman of the Singapore Chinese Music Federation Youth Chapter, Teacher-Artist of the Singapore National Youth Chinese Orchestra, and Instructor of Resonance – Sheng Ensemble. He has conducted numerous lectures and workshops at institutions such as Yale-NUS College and the HKAPA.

Complementing his performance and teaching endeavours, Kevin is a prolific arranger with commissions from the Singapore Chinese Orchestra, Ding Yi Music Company, and The Purple Symphony, among others. He is currently studying composition under the tutelage of Law Wai-lun.