The Philadelphia Orchestra, led by principal guest conductor Marin Alsop, made its debut in South China's Hainan province, captivating the audience in the city of Haikou with the renowned "Sound of Philadelphia".

The Philadelphia Orchestra Concert 2024 filled the Hainan Center for the Performing Arts on Saturday evening, showcasing classical masterpieces from around the world such as The Barber of Seville, Haydn Variations, and Symphony No 9 in E minor, 'From the New World', under the theme "Centennial Orchestra, Classic Night". The audience showered the artists with thunderous applause at the concert's conclusion, expressing gratitude for the performance. Alsop surprised the local audience by performing locally distinctive pieces such as Wanquan River Is Clear and Pure and Eternal Invitation.

The second concert, themed "East Meets West, Masters' Night", takes place on Sunday evening, featuring collaborations between Alsop and world-renowned pipa player Wu Man on innovative pieces such as the Leonora Overture No 3, Concerto for Pipa and Orchestra No 2, and Symphony No 7 in A major.

Matías Tarnopolsky, president and CEO of The Philadelphia Orchestra, described the visit as a "history-making" in the orchestra's history, facilitated by the Hainan government's invitation. He emphasized the unifying power of music, noting its ability to bring people together and serve as an equalizing force in the world.

Tarnopolsky highlighted the orchestra's commitment to specially selecting music for their performances in China, including engaging in activities at Hainan University and Wormhole Library to interact directly with music students and the Haikou community.

The events in Hainan are part of the orchestra's extensive China tour, spanning from Oct 31 to Nov 10, as China and the United States celebrate the 45th anniversary of diplomatic ties.

The enduring relationship between the Philadelphia Orchestra and China spans multiple generations since its inception in 1973. The orchestra's historic tour as the first American orchestra to visit China after the founding of the People's Republic of China marked a significant milestone in China-US cultural exchange, earning praise from leaders in both countries for its role as a cultural envoy strengthening bilateral ties.