Sydney Symphony Orchestra sets sail for China

[Photo/CNTV]

The resident of the iconic Sydney Opera house, the Sydney Symphony Orchestra has wowed Beijing's classical music fans on Friday. Aimed at deepening cultural ties with China, the company has showcased the caliber of Australia's contemporary classical music scene.

If Sydney Symphony Orchestra is Australia's flagship orchestra, then composer Andrew Schultz can be seen as the spokesman for the country's contemporary classical music. His music has been performed and recorded by leading musicians around the world. Beijing audiences are in for a treat to see the world premiere of his new work.

Foreboding and enchanting, Andrew Schultz's "Sound Lur and Serpent, Fanfare for Brass and Percussion, Opus 98" sets the tone for the evening's performance. Inspired by old brass instruments that resemble the horns of beasts and the shapes of serpents, the piece was commissioned by the Sydney Symphony Orchestra for their 2014 China tour, and its gives the Chinese audience a taste of New Australian Music.

Founded in 1932 by the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, the Sydney Symphony has evolved into one of the world's finest orchestras. In 1965 the Symphony conducted its first overseas tour, becoming the first Australian orchestra to perform in both the United Kingdom and in Asia.

This January, David Robertson assumed the role as the orchestra's Chief Conductor and Artistic Director. With an extensive orchestral and operatic repertoire, the American conductor has forged close relationships with major orchestras around the world. On his first visit to China with the company, the maestro was taken aback by the audience's response.

"There was a quality of listening that was just spectacular. And this is very inspiring to us muscians. So we really enjoy coming to China. We've put down some quite deep connections at various conservatories, master classes we've done at various places...this kind of interaction with people deeper than just come in and play a concert and leave." said David Robertson, Chief Conductor, Sydney Symphony Orchestra.