In Tuesday’s (11/5) San Diego Union-Tribune, James Chute reports on the San Diego Symphony’s “Friendship Tour” now underway in China. “After being treated royally in Yantai, where the media constantly followed the orchestra, many of the musicians expected they’d be just another attraction in Shanghai,” where they perform tonight at the Shanghai Oriental Art Center with Joshua Bell. “They were the most accomplished U.S. symphony orchestra to perform in Yantai, San Diego’s sister city…. But it’s [San Diego Symphony Music Director Jahja] Ling who is on the cover of the Art Center’s glossy, monthly magazine, along with cellist Yo-Yo Ma and composer Tan Dun. ‘It’s three Chinese musicians who are accomplished,’ Ling said…. ‘They have a certain kind of pride in that; there’s a connection.’ ” Both of Ling’s parents were Chinese. “Ling pointed out his first performance as a guest conductor in China was with the Shanghai Symphony in 1995. He now frequently conducts in China…. ‘I’m here to do what’s best for the San Diego Symphony,’ Ling said…. ‘I feel we’ve come to a period after nine years where we have something,’ said Ling, now in his 10th season with the orchestra. ‘And we want to let the world hear it.’ ”
Posted November 5, 2013
