Cultural Exchange: The Philadelphia Orchestra kicks off China Tour in Beijing

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03:20

The Philadelphia Orchestra, one of the world's preeminent orchestras, has begun its 2019 China Tour. On May 17th and 18th, the orchestra presented two concerts at the National Center for the Performing Arts in Beijing. Here's more.

Led by music director Yannick Nezet-Seguin, the concert on May 17th started with the world premiere of "Fanfare Overture".

The piece, written by world-renowned Chinese composer Tan Dun, was specially commissioned by the Philadelphia Orchestra. The work perfectly combines beautiful Chinese melodies with smooth American rhythms, in a unique style all of Tan Dun's own.

Following were the "Pastoral" symphony by Beethoven -- a piece the orchestra performed during its first-ever visit to China in 1973 -- and the Symphony No. 2 in D Major by Sibelius.

The concert on May 18th was a celebration of the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and the U.S.

But the Philadelphia Orchestra's relationship with China actually predates that 1979 landmark by six years.

Since then, the orchestra has made regular trips to China for the past 46 years, visiting more frequently over the last nine years as a cultural ambassador between the two countries.

The tour involves seven concerts over 10 days, and other events including small ensemble performances, classes, seminars, and networking events.

After the two concerts in Beijing, the orchestra will continue its tour in Tianjin, Hangzhou, Nanjing and Shanghai. CGTN.