Zhang Jinwei, a young teacher from the Music College of Taizhou University, and Italian vocalists perform a powerful rendition of O Sole Mio. [Photo/Taizhou Daily]
The Philharmonic Orchestra of Franciacorta from Italy graced the stage of the Taizhou Grand Theater on April 29, offering an innovative interpretation of classic operatic masterpieces. The performance captivated the audience with a fusion of visual and musical artistry.
The evening began with the elegant movements of the conductor, whose baton summoned sweeping waves of orchestral sound. As timeless arias such as The Joy of Love, O Mio Babbino Caro, and Let's Walk Together echoed through the theater, the audience swayed to the rhythm, immersed in the emotional power of the music.
The performance reached its climax when Zhang Jinwei, a young teacher from the Music College of Taizhou University, joined Italian vocalists for a powerful rendition of O Sole Mio. His soaring voice lit up the hall and earned thunderous, prolonged applause.
The concert was part of the Art Appreciation Enhancement Season co-hosted by the Taizhou Grand Theater and the Taizhou Musicians' Association. The initiative aims to bring world-class performances to local audiences and foster international artistic exchange.
Prior to the show, a cultural dialogue unfolded between young performers from the Taizhou Mei Lanfang Peking Opera Troupe and the visiting Italian artists. The elegant vocal techniques of the Peking Opera actors earned enthusiastic applause and admiration from the Italian performers.
Baritone and pianist Raffaele Bellavista remarked: "Peking Opera and Italian opera are both time-honored cultural treasures with strong regional identities and global influence. While Peking Opera emphasizes theatrical movement, Italian opera focuses intensely on vocal expression. Artists from both countries should explore each other's art forms, learn from them, and be inspired by their unique beauty."