Uploaded September 2018 | Updated September 2026, 3 weeks ago

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Kung Fu Panda Orchestral Medley
by Hans Zimmer
arr. Chiara Chung-Halpern JE'21

Kung Fu Panda was released in 2008. It follows the story of a large panda named Po, who, by chance (or by destiny), is chosen by Master Ooguay to become the dragon warrior. Despite facing hate especially by the ‘Furious Five’, for not having the technique or physique of a ‘typical kung fu warrior’, Po eventually fulfills his destiny as the Dragon Warrior and defeats the evil Tai Lung in the
ultimate showdown.
The soundtrack was composed by Hans Zimmer and John Powell, their first collaboration together. It helps to set the scene with traditional chinese ballads mixed with more contemporary rock. The slow spiritual elements of ‘Oogway Ascends’ contrasts greatly with the more upbeat elements of CeeLo Green’s ‘Kung Fu Fighting’.

Program Notes by Chiara Chung-Halpern