On May 5–6, 2025, the internationally renowned Orchestre National de France will perform at the National Centre for the Performing Arts（NCPA）in Beijing...

On May 5–6, 2025, the internationally renowned Orchestre National de France will perform at the National Centre for the Performing Arts（NCPA）in Beijing under the baton of Music Director Cristian Măcelaru, joined by pianist Bruce Liu, winner of the 18th International Chopin Piano Competition. This will be the orchestra’s only stop in China on their tour, presenting two exceptional concerts.

Marking a major cultural exchange on the occasion of the 61st anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and France, this tour also signifies the orchestra’s long-awaited return to China after seven years. The first concert, A Night of French Rhapsody, will feature masterpieces by Bizet and Ravel. The second concert, coinciding with the 190th anniversary of Saint-Saëns’s birth, will be a special tribute to the composer, highlighted by a performance of his iconic Organ Symphony.

Founded in 1934, the Orchestre National de France has long been dedicated to promoting the essence of French music. Under Măcelaru’s direction, the orchestra will collaborate with pianist Bruce Liu to perform Ravel’s Piano Concerto in G major and Saint-Saëns’s Piano Concerto No. 5 “The Egyptian”.