Chen Qigang, composer. [Photo provided to China Daily]

Three such sessions have already been held.

"In holding the workshops, it is not our intention to build a standard of composition but rather to break out from thinking only in terms of established aesthetics and eventually, to create a free, independent space for new ideas," he says.

He has benefitted from this workshop, too.

"I live in the village, which is surrounded by trees and streams. And without a fast-paced urban life, I don't have to meet people or socialize," he says, adding that he works, reads books and spends time alone.

Looking ahead, Chen Qigang's work, Jiang Tcheng Tse for solo voice, chorus and orchestra, will have its world premiere at the NCPA on March 2.

Jointly commissioned by the NCPA Orchestra, Vale of Glamorgan Festival, Sydney Symphony Orchestra and Wales BBC National Symphony Orchestra, the work is based on the poem Jiang Cheng Zi written by Song Dynasty (960-1279) poet Su Shi. In the poem, Su mourns the death of his wife.

Contact the writer at chennan@chinadaily.com.cn

If you go

7:30 pm, Sunday. Poly Theater, 14 Dongzhimen Nandajie, Dongcheng district, Beijing. 010--6506-5343.