Philadelphia Orchestra embarks on China tour

The name "Philadelphia Orchestra" is not only renowned among music enthusiasts but is also cherished as a dear friend of the people of China. It was the first musical ensemble from the United States to have performed in China, and serves as an artistic bridge between the two countries.

In 1973, they made their debut performance in China, and over the following five decades, the Philadelphia Orchestra embarked on 12 tours to some major cities in China, establishing profound friendships with Chinese audience, musicians, and cultural organizations.

This year, from November 9 to 18, they are back in China for residency activities that commemorate the 50th anniversary of the ensemble's historic 1973 tour of China.

During their tour, the orchestra is set to make stops in four cities: Beijing, Tianjin, Suzhou, and Shanghai. A series of cultural exchange activities will be conducted. These activities will include side-by-side concerts, exclusive chamber performances, and more. Additionally, 14 top-tier musicians from the orchestra will participate in masterclass activities, engaging with music students in-depth and providing guidance and mentorship.

Their inaugural performance was a special anniversary side-by-side concert in Beijing. The Philadelphia Orchestra performed with the China National Symphony Orchestra at the National Centre for the Performing Arts, led by China National Symphony Orchestra Chief Conductor Li Xincao and Philadelphia Orchestra Assistant Conductor Tristan Rais-Sherman.

In Tianjin, a dedicated performance is expected to take place on Saturday at the Tianjin Juilliard College of Music, featuring outstanding musicians from the school, the Tianjin Symphony Orchestra, and the Tianjin Conservatory of Music, setting up a musical extravaganza of the highest order.

Suzhou, renowned for its classical gardens, will also embrace a unique indoor concert respectively at the Suzhou Museum and the Humble Administrator's Garden. The Humble Administrator's Garden, also known as Zhuozheng Garden, is located in Suzhou and stands as a celebrated classical garden and a quintessential representation of ancient Chinese horticulture.

The music and the beauty of Chinese garden aesthetics are set to create a harmonious and enchanting appreciation experience.

Founded in 1900 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the Philadelphia Orchestra stands as one of the most prestigious and iconic orchestras in the U.S. In the course of more than a century since its inception, the orchestra has delivered a series of exceptional musical performances to the public.