Brazilian musicians recently performed a concert at the Forte de Copacabana in Rio de Janeiro featuring a repertoire composed entirely of Chinese works. The initiative had the participation of the Confucius Institute at the Pontifical Catholic University of Rio de Janeiro (PUC-Rio) and the Forte de Copacabana Orchestra, and marked the 52nd anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Brazil.

Chinese Consul-General in Rio de Janeiro, Tian Min, and the Commander of the Forte de Copacabana, Colonel Ribeiro Galvão, attended the event, alongside consular representatives and representatives of the business community, Chinese community and other sectors of local society.

During the concert, the Forte de Copacabana Orchestra performed several Chinese pieces. Brazilian soprano Marília Vargas also performed two Chinese songs, bringing Brazilian audiences closer to the music of the Asian country.

In parallel, the Confucius Institute organised a space dedicated to Chinese culture at the military museum, featuring demonstrations of tea ceremony and calligraphy. Visitors were able to taste tea and watch their names being written in Chinese characters.

Founded 14 years ago, the Confucius Institute at PUC-Rio has developed initiatives aimed at bringing Brazilian public closer to China. The collaboration with the Brazilian orchestra sought to strengthen cultural exchange and friendship between the two countries.

(Source: People’s Daily Online, 19 August)