Li will lead the China Philharmonic Orchestra on April 13, in a performance of The Rite of Spring, one of the most groundbreaking works in classical music, composed by Igor Stravinsky. Joining them will be German violinist Simon Zhu, 22, who recently won first prize at the 57th International Violin Competition "Premio Paganini".
Zhu will perform Violin Concerto No 1, Op 6 by Niccolo Paganini, a piece known for its technical demands and virtuosic brilliance.
Later in the festival, on April 29, Li will take the stage once again — this time conducting a concert featuring young musicians from symphony orchestras of 11 Chinese music schools. The highlight of the evening will be 85-year-old pianist Yin Chengzong performing his renowned Yellow River Piano Concerto, which he adapted from Xian Xinghai's Yellow River Cantata. Since its premiere in 1970, this piano concerto has remained one of the most beloved pieces in Chinese classical music.
"The concert will mark the 120th anniversary of Xian's birth and also celebrate the 55th anniversary of the Yellow River Piano Concerto's premiere," adds Li.
Beyond classical masterpieces, the festival will spotlight original works that capture the essence of different Chinese regions. For instance, the Wuxi Symphony Orchestra will present Wuxi Overture, a composition by Li Shaosheng that evokes the misty beauty of Taihu Lake and the cultural heritage of Wuxi.
