The Philadelphia Orchestra makes its debut in Qingdao, performing classic pieces together with the Qingdao Symphony Orchestra. [Photo/WeChat account: qd12301]

The harmonious strains of Beethoven's Pastoral Symphony resonated through Qingdao Grand Theatre on Oct 11, as the Philadelphia Orchestra joined the Qingdao Symphony Orchestra in a celebration of musical diplomacy. This collaboration continued a legacy that began in 1973 when the American orchestra became the first from the United States to perform in China.

Marking its 125th anniversary, the Philadelphia Orchestra has dispatched 10 musicians for a residency program across China from Oct 10 to 18, with debut performances in Qingdao and return visits to Shanghai and Hangzhou.

"For over five decades, we have walked side by side with the people of China," said its president and CEO Ryan Fleur. "We remain committed to building bridges across cultures through musical collaboration."

The performance held profound historical significance — the very same symphony had inaugurated the orchestra's first Chinese tour 52 years ago. "Playing this piece here is incredibly meaningful," shared a violist from the Philadelphia Orchestra, highlighting the continuation of their predecessors' artistic spirit.

The orchestra's chief creative and production officer, Tanya Derksen, noted the remarkable passion of Chinese audiences, especially the growing number of young classical music fans.

The tour will continue with collaborative performances at Shanghai Tech University with the Shanghai Philharmonic Orchestra on Oct 17, and with the Zhejiang Symphony Orchestra in Hangzhou on Oct 18, featuring a piece inspired by classical Tang poetry.