How can music help arouse public concern about the environment?
Some Chinese and Spanish musicians have joined hands to give their answer through a special symphonic concert titled "Pastoral for the Planet" in Beijing.
"The sound of wind and rain are very beautiful. We hope to show the power of nature through these sounds. Hence, this symphonic epic offers a profound meditation on the relationship between nature and mankind," said director Carlus Padrissa of La Fura Dels Baus from Spain.
Chinese and Spanish musicians stage the symphonic epic 'Pastoral for the Planet' on Saturday, September 30, 2023 in Beijing. /Photo provided to CGTN
La Fura Dels Baus is a Spanish theatrical group founded in 1979. It is known to the world for its immersive theatrical productions that rely on a variety of visual media art forms, including video.
Supported by advanced technologies in their stage designs and having four dancers to further enliven the stage, this symphonic epic was performed by the Guangzhou Symphony Orchestra under the baton of conductor Huang Yi. Beethoven's Symphony No. 6, also known as the Pastoral Symphony, is the inspiration behind this symphonic epic, according to the musicians from both sides.
Huang Yi conducts the 'Pastoral for the Planet' symphonic concert held in Beijing on Saturday, September 30, 2023. /Photo provided to CGTN
"For audiences, this will be a comprehensive sensory experience, leading them into a world full of imagination and beauty. On the other hand, it is very exciting for every musician involved to try this kind of brand new project," said conductor Huang Yi.
While enjoying a fantastic display of visual effects, theatergoers were even able to interact with the performances on stage via a specially-designed app on their mobile phones.
A new symphonic event is staged in Beijing on Saturday, September 30, 2023, offering theatergoers a comprehensive sensory experience that went beyond a concert, leading them through a world full of imagination and beauty. /Photo provided to CGTN
The ongoing Beijing Music Festival sponsored the "Pastoral for the Planet" symphonic show to help actively shape the future of classical music and make it more accessible to a wider audience.
The event also represents the vibrant cultural exchanges being held between China and Spain as part of this year's celebrations to mark the 50th anniversary of the founding of their diplomatic ties.