Music and Engineering by Austin X Huang

"When I examine symphonic music from a scientific perspective, I find it somewhat incorrect to label classical music (symphonic music) as 'Western music.' Such a designation appears to be based on its superficial appearance rather than an understanding of its core music philosophy. This book by Huang Xiaofeng discusses the relationship between music and engineering, including concepts of scientific symphonic music, reflections on the development of Chinese symphonic music, the interplay of emotion and rationality in symphonic composition, and the intersection of his own engineering work with symphonic music. Through three solo concerts (at Seattle's Benaroya Hall and Beijing Concert Hall in China), he showcases his works, including his creative ideas, the application of modern music techniques, and the fusion of cross-cultural and cross-classical elements in contemporary music. The book also presents evaluations of his work by various composers, conductors, and musicians. In terms of engineering, it highlights his achievements and his concept of environmental conservation and maintaining water circulation systems. He recognizes that civil engineering has undergone a revolutionary change from the traditional model of construction for the sake of buildings to a focus on preserving and protecting water circulation systems through engineering means, which he views as a significant transformation in the field of civil engineering."