Classical music marathon draws renowned orchestras and artists

A marathon live stream of classical music celebrating World Earth Day took place on Wednesday, featuring renowned orchestras, operas and artists from more than 10 countries.

Jointly hosted by the Shanghai People's Broadcast Station and Shanghai Opera House, the 12-hour event was initiated by conductor and pianist Xu Zhong. The event was live streamed on multiple web platforms and broadcast by the radio station.

Taking part in the event, which took place from 8 am to 8 pm on Apr 22, were renowned orchestras and institutions such as the Berlin Philharmonic, the Philadelphia Orchestra, Orchestre de Paris, BBC Cardiff Singer of the World and the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama. Among those who performed were acclaimed artists such as German conductor Will Humburg, French pianist Jean-Francois Heisser, Chinese cellist Wang Jian and soprano He Hui.

"Music will bolster our courage and strength in the face of adversity. Many music institutions, orchestras and artists from overseas showed their support for China when it was facing a difficult time fighting the novel coronavirus breakout. Now, we want to send our message to the rest of the world," Xu Zhong said during the live stream.

The 12-hour rally started with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra playing the Chinese piano concerto Ode to the Yellow River. This was the first time most of the musicians played a Chinese composition.