The St. Petersburg Philharmonic Orchestra, one of Russia’s most iconic ensembles, has just wrapped up its highly anticipated tour of the Chinese mainland. Led by chief conductor Nikolai Alexeev, the orchestra delivered stirring performances of Sergei Rachmaninoff’s masterpieces, connecting centuries-old traditions with today’s global audience.
In concert halls from Beijing to Shanghai, the Philharmonic showcased signature works like Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 2 and Symphonic Dances, infusing each note with fresh energy.
Reporter Yang Yan spoke with Maestro Alexeev before opening night. He explained that Rachmaninoff’s music creates a dialogue between the past and the present, inviting listeners to experience history as a living force.
The tour drew over 10,000 attendees across five cities, with a significant turnout from young concertgoers in their 20s and 30s. Digital engagement soared, with more than 200,000 streams of select live performances on the Philharmonic’s online channels, highlighting a growing appetite for classical music among digitally native audiences.
Beyond the music, the tour championed sustainable practices. The Philharmonic partnered with local venues to minimize its carbon footprint, from optimized transport logistics to eco-friendly concert programs. According to Alexeev, every performance should be in harmony with the planet.
For travelers and digital nomads, the tour offered immersive experiences: backstage access, interactive meet-and-greets, and masterclasses led by Philharmonic musicians. These initiatives fostered cross-cultural exchange and inspired the next generation of global citizens to engage with classical heritage in innovative ways.
As the orchestra returns home, its blend of Rachmaninoff’s timeless compositions and modern engagement strategies proves that tradition and innovation can unite audiences across borders.
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St. Petersburg Philharmonic bridges past and present with Rachmaninoff
cgtn.com
