Chicago celebrates Spring Festival with traditional Chinese music

World
Europe

01:42

As one of the most auspicious occasions on the Chinese calendar, the Spring Festival is celebrated by Chinese people across the globe.

This year, the U.S. city of Chicago kicked off its annual Chinese New Year revelries with traditional Chinese music.

Bells rang out, resonating melodies throughout the Chicago Orchestra Hall during the first half of Sunday's concert.

Artists perform traditional Chinese music at the Chicago Orchestra Hall in Chicago, U.S. /CGTN Photo

The music, originating from ancient China over 2,400 years ago, was brought to the snowy city by the Hubei Chime Bell National Orchestra, and it was part of the city's Chinese New Year celebration.

Many audience members said they were moved by the exotic Chinese music, even though it's so different from the jazz and blues Chicago is famous for.

The second half of the concert featured pieces from Peking Opera classics, such as Palace of Eternal Youth and Three-Way Fork in the Road.

Chinese artists perform Peking Opera at the Chicago Orchestra Hall in Chicago, U.S. /CGTN Photo

Before the show started, the Chinese Ambassador to the U.S., Cui Tiankai, extended his Chinese New Year greetings to the over 1000 audience members in attendance.

Since 2014, the municipal government has been dedicated to making Chicago the most friendly city to China.