SZ symphony foundation hosts event, welcomes new board directors

The Shenzhen Vitalization Symphony Development Foundation held an event that blended fashion, art, and symphony at the Marisfrolg Building in Longhua District on Sept. 15. The gathering brought together board members and guests who are deeply committed to the promotion of symphonic music and philanthropy.

The event, which celebrated the diversity and beauty of life, successfully conveyed a positive message, urging increased societal support for cultural and artistic endeavors.

It began with the unveiling of select pieces from ZHUCHONGYUN's 2024 winter collection, a high-end brand under the Marisfrolg Group. This was followed by an enchanting mini-concert featuring performances by the foundation's invited artists, including mezzo-soprano Li Ying, Steinway artist Zhao Yangmingtian, and young pianist Li Hanhang.

Models present ZHUCHONGYUN's 2024 winter collection. Courtesy of the Shenzhen Vitalization Symphony Development Foundation

A key moment of the evening was the donation and award ceremony, during which Zhu Chongyun, co-founder of Marisfrolg Fashion Group, was officially appointed to the foundation's board of directors. In addition, Marisfrolg, the foundation, and the Shenzhen Symphony Orchestra signed a strategic cooperation agreement, paving the way for more high-quality symphonic concerts at this fashionable landmark in the future.

The foundation also received a notable donation of a sound art installation from Barcelona, Spain. According to Li Gaoli, a scholar of Gaudí’s art and design and founder of the “Sounds of Gaudí” exhibition, the installation was designed by Professor Josep Cerdà Ferré, former dean of the College of Fine Arts at the University of Barcelona. The installation will support the Shenzhen Symphony Orchestra's artistic endeavors by integrating innovative sound art, with future plans for the orchestra to participate in the “Sounds of Gaudí” series.

Newly appointed board director Zhou Jie, who is also the CEO of Art Frontier HK, a company that donated the sound art installation, emphasized their ongoing commitment to support Shenzhen's symphonic development through funding and resources while fostering cultural exchange between Shenzhen and Barcelona.

The foundation receives a sound art installation donated by Art Frontier HK.

In his remarks, Ma Weihua, chairman of the foundation, highlighted the significance of the Marisfrolg-donated artistic space as a captivating stage for future symphonic activities. He also underscored the immense value of the sound art installation from Barcelona. Ma noted that while symphony music is often perceived as "highbrow," its growth is sustained by the increasing support from social organizations and individuals, such as the foundation’s board members.

The exterior of the artistic space donated by Marisfrolg.

Ma further stressed the importance of corporate and social group support in a global symphonic industry that heavily relies on limited government funding. Since its inception in 2018, the foundation has garnered generous backing from various sectors, promoting the exchange and collaboration of symphonic music in Shenzhen and enhancing the city’s cultural influence. He expressed confidence that the Shenzhen Symphony Orchestra, with its unique appeal, will continue to attract a wider audience and eventually establish itself as a global brand.

Lin Daye, music director and principal conductor of the Shenzhen Symphony Orchestra, also addressed the attendees, expressing gratitude for the support and donations from Marisfrolg Fashion Group and new foundation members like Art Frontier HK. He noted that this involvement not only injects new vitality into Shenzhen’s cultural and artistic development but also strengthens the foundation’s ability to collaboratively advance public welfare through symphonic music.