Shanghai Symphony Orchestra Returns to Auckland After 50 Years

The Shanghai Symphony Orchestra, Asia’s oldest orchestra, is set to return to Auckland after a half-century absence. The ensemble will perform on March 19 and 20, 2024, at the Auckland Town Hall as part of a tour that includes stops in New Zealand, Australia, and Singapore. Established in 1879, the orchestra is renowned for its contribution to the Grammy- and Oscar-winning soundtrack of *Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon*.

Under the direction of music director and conductor Long Yu, who has been described by *The New York Times* as “the most powerful figure in China’s Western classical music scene,” the orchestra comprises over 100 musicians. The performances will showcase works from notable contemporary composers, including Elliot Leung and Qigang Chen.

Exciting Program Features Prominent Works

The program will highlight Leung’s evocative suite, *Chinese Kitchen: A Feast of Flavours*, which consists of ten movements, each inspired by traditional Chinese dishes. Celebrated cellist Jian Wang and pianist Serena Wang will also perform selections by Tchaikovsky and Rachmaninov.

Yu expressed his excitement about the return, recalling the orchestra’s last visit to Auckland in 1975. “We are delighted to finally return after 50 years,” he stated. “I expect most of the audience will be experiencing our orchestra for the first time, so we hope they enjoy our blend of Eastern and Western repertoire, uniting audiences through music.” He emphasized that the carefully curated program aims to introduce recognizable pieces alongside compositions by leading Chinese composers, providing a unique experience for attendees.

Wang, who gained recognition as a child prodigy, expressed her enthusiasm about performing in Auckland for the first time. “It’s always on my traveling list,” she said. “I’m so glad that I can not only be there but also bring my music to everybody.” She will perform Tchaikovsky alongside Chen’s *Er Huang*, a piece influenced by the traditional Chinese art form of Peking opera.

Wang noted the universal nature of music, stating, “No matter what kind of repertoire it is and what kind of style, I believe that the music itself will connect to the local audience.” She also mentioned her eagerness to explore Auckland’s vibrant café culture, particularly its local coffee scene.

A Momentous Occasion for Auckland’s Arts Community

The artistic director of the Auckland Arts Festival, Bernie Haldane, highlighted the significance of this event for the city. “We are honoured to welcome the world-renowned Shanghai Symphony Orchestra,” she remarked. “This marks the first time in more than 25 years that an international symphony orchestra will perform in our city – a momentous occasion for our audiences and arts community.”

She added that the festival looks forward to sharing selections from *Chinese Kitchen: A Feast of Flavours*, emphasizing the cultural connections that music fosters across borders and traditions.

The upcoming performances promise to be a vibrant celebration of music, culture, and community, marking a historic return for the Shanghai Symphony Orchestra to Auckland.