On January 13th, Zhejiang Symphony Orchestra gave a concert at the Berlin Concert Hall for the conclusion of Chinese Cultural Year in Germany.

Closing concert for 2012 Germany "Chinese Culture Year"

In the evening of January 13th 2013, Zhejiang Symphony Orchestra gave a concert at the Berlin Concert Hall for the conclusion of Chinese Cultural Year in Germany. The performance won a full house and triggered a wide sensation among international media. Under the baton of Maestro Muhai Tang - one of the renowned conductors in China, Zhejiang Symphony Orchestra brought a novel program to the audience in Berlin that combined both the traditional Chinese pieces and the classical compositions. The new edition of Mahler’s The Song of the Earth premiered by tenor Stefan Vinke, alto Iris Vermillion and the orchestra was impressive, especially the parts played with Chinese traditional instruments.

In addition, the traditional Chinese pieces performed during the concert were enjoyed immensely by the audience, such as Zouxikou by Chen Qigang, Theatregoing by Zhao Songting, and Dragon Dance by Lu Pei. As the encore, Jasmine Flower adaped by Willi Huber was performed by the dizi soloist with his giant dizi which was paid specially attention by the audience. As the concert concluded, part of the audience was still lingering and reluctant to leave the joyful night behind.

Zhejiang Symphony Orchestra's performances in Germany and Spain won a great success

2012 celebrated the 40th diplomatic anniversary between China and Germany. During the year, the project of Chinese Culture Year in Germany carried out more than 500 events in 40 cities of Germany, including music, theatre, dance, movie, architecture, modern arts, literature and philosophy etc. In its diplomatic history, 2012 Chinese Culture Year was the largest, longest and broadest project ever happened in Germany. These activities enhanced the friendship and deepened the understanding between two countries by making Chinese culture accessible to German public.

After the performance in Germany, Zhejiang Symphony Orchestra stopped in Spain and gave performances in Alicante and Valencia, on both occasions made great successes. On January 19th 2013, the orchestra was invited to perform at the Teatro Monumental in Madrid to celebrate the anniversary of the 40th diplomatic relations between China and Spain. The enthusiastic response from Spanish audience reflected their appreciation for Chinese culture. The Festival Overture by Shi Wanchun, The Moon Reflected on the Er Quan Spring,  Symphony No. 7 by Beethoven all showcased the enchantement of Chinese traditional music. The audience were all charmed and gave a long lasting applaud by this brilliant performance. This concert was regarded as the prelude of the whole years' activities of concerts and exhibitions. The 40th diplomatic anniversary between China and Spain signified the ever deepening understanding and friendship between the two countries.