Echoes of Tradition: Peiyang Chinese Orchestra Marks 40-Year Milestone

On the evening of June 7, Tianjin University held a special concert to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Peiyang Chinese Orchestra. The event took place in the Lecture Hall of the Datong Student Center, drawing a full audience of students, faculty, alumni, and music lovers who gathered to enjoy a captivating evening of traditional Chinese music.

The concert opened with a majestic performance of Guo Feng (National Style), followed by Yao Dance, a lively piece that vividly portrayed the festive singing and dancing of the Yao ethnic group. The Dream of Red Mansions Overture transported listeners to the classical world of the Grand View Garden, while Lantern Festival brought a spirited and joyful atmosphere. The sorrowful Song of the Burial Flowers, the energetic Driving Horses to Transport Grain, and the profound Impression of Chinese Music: Daqu demonstrated the ensemble’s expressive range and musical maturity.

In the second half of the program, the audience was moved by Old Heaven Sends Sweet Rain, a piece from the Northwest Suite that evoked the vast and simple beauty of northwestern China. The Terracotta Warriors Fantasia revisited a highlight from the orchestra’s participation in the 3rd National University Art Performance in 2012. The delicate Thoughts of Clouds and Blossoms and the sweeping Yellow River Rhapsody further showcased the orchestra's artistic depth. The evening concluded on a jubilant note with the encore piece Blossoms under the Full Moon, drawing prolonged applause from an appreciative audience.

Founded in 1985, the Peiyang Chinese Orchestra has performed an extensive repertoire of works that reflect the richness and diversity of traditional Chinese music. It has become a vital cultural force within the university and the broader community. The orchestra has won numerous honors, including Gold Awards in the instrumental music category at the 2nd (2009) and 5th (2018) National University Art Performances, a Silver Award at the 3rd edition (2012), as well as First Prizes in ethnic instrumental ensemble categories at the Tianjin Municipal Art Performances in 2020 and 2023. The group has also performed at major celebrations and international events, continuing to play a key role in promoting Chinese musical heritage.

By: Qin Mian