The Philadelphia Orchestra launched its China tour with a premier concert in Beijing on Thursday, celebrating a 50-year relationship with China.
Philadelphia Orchestra President and CEO Matias Tarnopolsky described the tour as ‘epic,’ noting that their partnership has spanned generations since 1973. “We value the connections that began back then,” he said.
As the first American orchestra to visit China after the founding of the People’s Republic of China, their historic tour helped initiate cultural exchanges between China and the U.S. Leaders from both nations have praised the orchestra for its role as a cultural ambassador that has strengthened bilateral ties.
The orchestra’s tour, from October 31 to November 10, will include nine performances, aligning with the 45th anniversary of China U.S. diplomatic relations. In addition to Beijing and Tianjin, the orchestra will make its debut in Chengdu and Haikou.
Tarnopolsky emphasized the importance of the tour for fostering people-to-people connections, promoting understanding between the two cultures.
During the opening concert, the orchestra performed classics, including Rossini’s The Barber of Seville, under the direction of conductor Marin Alsop. The concert, held at the National Center for the Performing Arts, captivated a 2,000-seat audience.
Upcoming performances will feature Chinese cultural elements, such as the pipa, a traditional Chinese instrument, along with musical pieces inspired by ancient Chinese poetry.
On Saturday, the orchestra will debut A Night of Flowers and Moonlight by the Spring River, based on Tang Dynasty poet Zhang Ruoxu’s work, composed by Mason Bates, known for blending electronic sounds with classical music.
“This piece is a special gift to Chinese audiences,” Tarnopolsky shared.
The orchestra’s 2023 visit marks its 14th tour in China, commemorating its original 1973 performance. Over the years, it has engaged with schools, universities, and hospitals across China, fostering relationships with young musicians and building a legacy of musical connection with the Chinese public.
Two musicians from the original 1973 tour are part of this year’s tour, including 74 year old violinist Davyd Booth, who has joined all 14 trips to China. Booth remarked that China is unique among countries the orchestra visits, as the relationship has grown deeply over the years.
Moreover, Renmin University professor Wang Yiwei commented that the orchestra’s visit rekindles memories of the early days of China U.S. relations, underscoring that people-to-people exchanges remain a powerful foundation for friendship.
Related Posts
