The Chinese capital has got some classical sounds from the Beijing Music Festival. A special concert was held on Monday night, which involved artists and composers from all over the world. 

Jingshan Park, this centuries-old royal garden, was lit up by glowing lamps and charming music. The China Philharmonic Orchestra, together with French pianist Jean-Yves Thibaudet and Chinese conductor Huang Yi, presented three commissioned works by global musicians, including the symphonies "Last Sacrifices" by Chinese-American artist Zhou Long and "The Song of Farewell" by Chinese composer Ye Xiaogang. 

The evening saw the world-premier of American composer Aaron Zigman's "Tango Manos" – a tango piano concerto written especially for the Festival. 

Thibaudet played the piece at the concert: "When I heard that the concert will be taking place here, I was sent pictures and I was so excited. I said this is unbelievable and what a privilege to play here. I think it would be an incredible inspiration just to look around and see at night it must be more magical. The 'Tango Manos' starts very softly, it is just piano. I think it would be hypnotizing and mesmerizing as much for the audience and for me as a player," the pianist told CGTN.

The concert took place in front of the park's Shouhuang Hall, an important building on the capital's famous central axis. Those present were in no doubt as to the cultural significance of the event. 

Cong Yipeng, director of the park, said: "We hope the concert can build a bridge between the cultures of the East and the West. While enjoying a fresh and different musical experience here, we also hope it can raise the public's concern about cultural heritage preservation."

The Beijing Music Festival will run through October 28th.