Music that binds the world

Two Countries, One Stage concerts, presented by Qingdao Symphony Orchestra and the Choral Arts Society of Washington from the United States. Zou Hong / China Daily

Tucker says he didn't know much about Chinese music earlier but the popularity of classical Western music in China became evident to him, just by looking at venues and hearing young soloists here.

Ed Hoover, a 39-year-old singer for the US chorus group since 2004, performed with the Chinese orchestra in 2009. He has also joined the concert series this year.

There aren't too many opportunities for Americans to hear music from a Chinese symphony orchestra, he says.

Hoover, who earns a living as a corporate communications officer for a US company, has traveled to China several times on business.

The Choral Art Society of Washington features a symphonic chorus of some 180 volunteer singers and regularly performs with the National Symphony Orchestra in the US.

"When I arrived in Washington, I knew this was the one to join," he says. "We all share a lively spirit and a fervent devotion to music."

If you go

7:30 pm, Monday. Concert hall of Shanghai Oriental Art Center, 272 Fengxian Road, Shanghai. 4006-466-406.

8 pm, Wednesday. Guangzhou Opera House, 1 Pearl River West Road, Pearl River New Town, Guangzhou. 020-3839-2888.

7:30 pm, Friday. Sha Tin Town Hall, 1 Yuen Wo Road, Sha Tin, Hong Kong. 852-2694-2550.

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