Peking University, Beijing, Dec. 25, 2009: PKU Symphony Orchestra 2010 New Year Concert staged in PKU Hall at 7:30 p.m. on Dec. 23.

The teachers and students in the symphony orchestra poured their effort into preparing for this concert for about one term. Everything was carefully designed from selecting the composition, rehearsals to the performance. Every music stand was decorated with a red butterflies, a Christmas bell and a cloth tiger, spreading the atmosphere of new year celebration.

The performance was hosted by Mr. Liu Xiaolong from the Department of Arts Studies, and the conductors were Zhao Xinghua and Guan Boyang from the Central Conservatory of Music. Carmen Overture by Georges Bizet came first, followed by the Marriage of Figaro Overture by Mozart and Oboe Concerto by Marcello. In a flashback way, the three pieces represented romanticism, classicalism and Baroque in turn, making it possible for the audiences to get a general perception of the development of western music.

Mr. Zhao Xinghua, conductor of the concert

Carmen Overture was vigorous and full of life, and presented the image of a handsome matador and the active atmosphere in the bullring, pushing everyone’s mood higher. On Contrary, the Marriage Of Figaro Overture was short but delicate and full of humor, making the audiences relax. The solo part of Oboe Concerto was played by Wang Xiaonan and Wang Yangyang, freshmen from Dept. of Philosophy and Dept. of Information Management. The first and third movement by Wang Xiaonan was dignified and energetic, while the second movement by Wang Yangyang was melodious and warm. The excellent teamwork of all the voice parts showed the exquisite chamber music.

During the second half, the No. 8 Symphony in B Minor -- Undone by Schubert, the best part of the concert, was performed. This piece had rich connotations, and was both dignified and melodious. It had been a big challenge for the orchestra to choose to play this masterpiece. However, the students showed their improvement in understanding and skills during their performance. What came next were Slavonic Dance, Ode To Red Flag and Pizzicato Polka. It is worth mentioning that at the end of year, Ode To Red Flag represented a gift for the sixtieth birthday and the best wishes for the future of our country.

The new year concert came to en end in the wishes of “Happy New Year and All the Best.” Our orchestra is sure to go further in the following year with their love and persistence for music.

Translated by: Qin Yixiao

Edited by: Xiang Yunke

Source: PKU News (Chinese)