On the evening of October 31st, Central Conservatory of Music (CCOM) Symphony Orchestra graced the stage of Huaqiao University (HQU), presenting the audience at Lee Pik-tsong Music and Dance Building a captivating concert as part of the “Classic Arts on Campus” series. The orchestra’s masterful performance filled the hall with soaring melodies, as the symphony unfolded in brilliant waves of harmony.

The concert commenced with a stirring rendition of “The Ode to the Red Flag”. The soaring trumpets and melodious strings resonated with patriotic fervor, expressing a deep love and loyalty for our homeland. Following this powerful opening, the orchestra presented a blend of cultural classics, including the beloved Chinese pieces “Yellow River Cantata”, “Chinese Sights and Sounds -24 Pieces by Themes on Chinese Folktunes for Symphony Orchestra”, “The Butterfly Lovers (Liang Zhu)”, and “I Love You, China”, along with Western masterpieces such as “Festive Overture”, “At the Hunt”, “Thunder and Lightning Polka”, and Beethoven’s “Symphony No. 8, 3rd Movement”. Each performance enchanted the audience, prompting waves of applause that filled the auditorium. The concert reached its emotional pinnacle during the finale chorus of “Ode to the Motherland” which moved many in attendance to tears.

In addition to the live audience, the concert was streamed live on HQU’s official platform, garnering over 7,000 viewers. “We were absolutely amazed and deeply moved to witness such passionate appreciation for classical music among the students,” shared Yang Zi , a CCOM faculty member who performed in “I Love You, China”. She also expressed hope for more similar events that would provide students with further opportunities to appreciate the beauty of classical music.

The “Classic Arts on Campus” initiative launched by national education authorities, seeks to enrich the educational landscape of colleges and universities by seamlessly integrating classical art into campus culture. By exposing students to exceptional examples of Chinese cultural heritage, the initiative creates meaningful encounters between students and artistic excellence, fostering cultural literacy and supporting their growth into well-rounded individuals. This event was hosted by the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, and the Ministry of Finance, and organized by Fujian Provincial Department of Education, CCOM and HQU.

The Concert

(Editor: Wei Linying)