Spanish orchestra to grace Shenzhen on China tour

The Asturias Youth Symphony Orchestra, currently on a one-month tour of China, is set to enchant the audience in Shenzhen this Sunday with a Carmen-themed performance.

Established in 2002 with the aim of diversifying musical engagement and sharing classical music with disadvantaged communities, the orchestra has been gaining global attention with their VINCULOS project.

Members of the Asturias Youth Symphony Orchestra pose for a group photo in Nanyang, Henan Province, a stop of their China tour. Photos courtesy of the orchestra

This international initiative leverages music as a universal language to build cultural connections and foster unity among individuals worldwide.

The China tour marks the ensemble's premiere visit to the Aisan country, starting July 18 with resounding applause. The orchestra, comprising over 50 members, has visited more than a dozen cities, including Beijing, Shanghai, Suzhou, and Hangzhou, and has been impressed by China's warm reception and modern facilities.

"We are pleasantly surprised at all the accommodations, theaters, transportation. Everything is huge and new. China is changing rapidly, and we are delighted to witness this transformation during our inaugural tour," conductor Manuel Paz told Shenzhen Daily.

Reveling in China's lush greenery that reminds them of their homeland in Asturias, the musicians have also enjoyed the culinary delights found across different parts of China. Thanks to technology and translators, the language barrier has been effectively bridged, with some orchestra members even able to converse in Putonghua, adding a personal touch to interactions with locals, according to the orchestra's Spanish producer Miguel Millan.

As they prepare for their upcoming performance in Shenzhen, the orchestra hopes to be able to explore the vibrant city within their limited time frame.

The orchestra's VINCULOS project, initiated in 2005, has allowed the orchestra to deliver concerts and workshops in diverse settings, from grand theaters and concert halls to open-air venues across various countries.

Scenes from the orchestra's previous performances.

During one of their overseas tours, the orchestra visited Ukraine in July 2022 amidst the conflicts, providing solace through the power of music to refugees and musicians alike. With their innovative approach, the orchestra brought joy and respite to those impacted by hardships in Ukraine, said Millan.

In addition to performances, the VINCULOS project includes instrument donations and educational support for aspiring musicians in underprivileged areas.

Conductor Paz leads this talented ensemble, with soloist violinist Pedro Ordieres and soprano singer Paula Lueje captivating audiences with their exceptional performances and extensive experience with esteemed orchestras worldwide.

The orchestra's current journey through China marks only the beginning of their relationship with the country, according to Millan.

"China is vast, and it would take numerous tours to cover it all," he said. "We aspire to explore other theaters and concert halls in China, visit additional Chinese cities, and bring our performances to more audiences."

The Shenzhen concert will start 7:30 p.m. Sunday at the Nanshan Cultural and Sports Center Jucheng Theater. 

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