Ten musicians from the China National Center for the Performing Arts Orchestra recently joined the São Paulo Symphony Orchestra (Osesp) at Sala São Paulo in Brazil. Under the direction of Chinese conductor Xian Zhang, the concert promoted friendship and cultural exchanges between the two countries.

The programme combined compositions connected to Chinese traditions and melodies with works from the European symphonic repertoire. The preparation of the joint performance allowed the musicians to share experiences and learn about different approaches to working in an orchestra.

The initiative continued an exchange that began in August, when musicians from Osesp travelled to Beijing. The reunion in Brazil strengthened the artistic collaboration between the two institutions, in a year dedicated to cultural exchanges between the two countries.

Brazilian musician Matthew Thorpe highlighted the discipline and technical ability of the Chinese instrumentalists, describing the opportunity to perform alongside them in São Paulo as inspiring.

Brazilian artist Arcadio Minczuk highlighted the importance of deepening cultural ties between China and Brazil, alongside their economic and political relations. He also highlighted the role of music, cinema and the arts in bringing people closer together.

(Source: Xinhua Português, 7 September)