With a rich lineup, China Philharmonic Orchestra unveils exciting new season, Chen Nan reports.

From the hushed anticipation backstage to the resonant power of the first note, the China Philharmonic Orchestra has long been a beacon of musical artistry in Beijing. On Aug 25, fresh from celebrating its 25th anniversary, it unveiled its highly anticipated 2025-26 season in Beijing.

This new chapter, born from a quarter-century of musical excellence, promises an awe-inspiring symphonic journey with 19 performances that span the vast landscape of classical music — from the intricate grace of the Baroque era to the bold innovations of contemporary compositions.

Rarely heard works will share the stage with world premieres, offering music lovers both the thrill of discovery and the comfort of timeless masterpieces.

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Under the leadership of its artistic director and chief conductor Yu Long, the orchestra will be joined by a constellation of international guest conductors and world-class soloists, aiming to create a season filled with breathtaking moments and a resounding celebration of music's timeless power.

The opening concert of the new season will take place on Sept 14 at the National Centre for the Performing Arts in Beijing. The orchestra will be conducted by Yu, performing two masterpieces by German-Austrian Romantic composers: Four Last Songs by Richard Strauss, featuring soprano Yu Guanqun, and Brahms' Symphony No 1 in C Minor, Op 68. These works underscore the orchestra's commitment to preserving the world's artistic legacy.

The season closes on June 26,2026, with Joe Hisaishi's Viola Saga, performed by violist Mei Diyang — the first Chinese musician as the first principal viola at the Berliner Philharmoniker, and Dvorak's Symphony No 9 in E minor, Op 95, From the New World.

"Joe Hisaishi is known for his film scores. This will mark the first domestic performance of Hisaishi's highly acclaimed viola concerto, offering audiences a rare opportunity to experience the full range of contemporary music," says Yu.

Throughout the season, Yu will conduct several key performances, including the opening concert of the Beijing Music Festival on Oct 10, focusing on Russian works. Other highlights include a concert on April 26, 2026, a complete Brahms piano concerto cycle with Austrian piano master Rudolf Buchbinder.

Additional performances include Ravel and Tchaikovsky on Dec 19, with Canadian piano virtuoso Louis Lortie, and a concert pairing Chen Qigang with Chopin, featuring Vietnamese-Canadian pianist Dang Thai Son and the orchestra's principal oboist, Zheng Dian. These performances promise to be some of the season's most exciting moments, says Yu.

A particularly exciting highlight of the upcoming season is the return of Swiss conductor Charles Dutoit, who will celebrate his 90th birthday in 2026.

According to Yu, the China Philharmonic Orchestra has had a long friendship with the conductor, collaborating with Dutoit on four occasions — in 2007, 2011, 2013, and 2019 — forging a close artistic partnership that has lasted nearly two decades. After a six-year hiatus, Dutoit will finally return to the podium, bringing with him his signature piece, Stravinsky's Firebird, as well as music pieces by Beethoven and Sergey Prokofiev.

Marking Prokofiev's 135th birthday, the new season will also offer a thematic exploration of the Russian composer's works, featuring two of his violin concertos, a piano concerto, and a symphony. It will showcase the evolution of his musical style from his early beginnings to his years abroad, and finally his return to his homeland. This curated selection offers a comprehensive tribute to Prokofiev's artistry.

The season is designed to offer more than beloved classics; it celebrates the richness and diversity of music.

"As we celebrate the 300th anniversary of Vivaldi's The Four Seasons, the 85th anniversary of China's broadcasting industry, and the upcoming 26th anniversary of the China Philharmonic Orchestra's founding, we are condensing multiple historical milestones into a single musical season," says Zhang Chenxiao, the orchestra's Party secretary.

The season will feature a blend of Chinese and international art. On Oct 24, a concert will pair Chinese Kitchen — a 10-movement composition by Hong Kong musician Elliot Leung, which is a new piece celebrating 10 Chinese delicacies, with Brahms' Alto Rhapsody Op 53.

In another concert on Nov 22, the orchestra will perform Instants d'un Opera de Pekin (Peking Opera Moments) by Chen Qigang and Chopin's Piano Concerto No 2 in F Minor, Op 21.

"We aim to create a sensory connection between the 'Chinese flavor' and 'international flair' for our audience," Zhang says.

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"Unveiling a new season for a symphony orchestra is a momentous occasion that marks the beginning of a fresh chapter in its artistic journey. It's not just an announcement of upcoming concerts; it's a reflection of the orchestra's vision, its evolving relationship with the audience, and its commitment to pushing the boundaries of classical music," says Yu.

"The repertoire chosen for the season is a powerful expression of the orchestra's artistic identity and aspirations. It showcases the orchestra's dedication to preserving musical traditions and embracing innovation," he adds.

Contact the writer at chennan@chinadaily.com.cn