Translated from German:

Nugiriiliwas originally written for cello trio by the Chinese composer Fang Dongqing in 2008. At the request of the renowned Chinese cellist Na Mula, this arrangement for nine cellos was created in cooperation with David Geringas and has since become one of the most frequently played contemporary Chinese ensemble works for cello worldwide.

The work was inspired by a traditional melody of the Evenk people. This indigenous people form an ethnic minority in China and are known for their centuries-old tradition of song and dance. The songs – melodious and poetic, almost delicate – stand in stark contrast to their rousing, impulsive dances full of dynamism.

The composer deliberately based his work on the typical rhythm of the strong stomping of the Evenk folk dances. Divided into four movements, impressions of the people’s work and everyday life are shown: TheMorning Songin the Hoomii style (also known as throat or overtone singing) opens the work, followed by the lively, dynamic and rhythmically pluckedWork Song. ThePastoral Songintroduces the evening, whichends with the spiritedStamping Song.