Poland hosts the China National Traditional Orchestra

The China National Traditional Orchestra held a concert at Poland's National Philharmonic Hall on Monday evening as the country's Chinese New Year celebrations reached their climax.

Before Chinese artists performed, Chinese Ambassador to Poland, Sun Linjiang, took the stage. After a deep bow, as a sign of appreciation to the host country, the Ambassador addressed the audience. 

READ MORE

Hungarian farmers set for Ukraine grain protests

The story of Chinoiserie

Why Barcelona is the 'City of the dragon'

"This is one of the events commemorating the 75th anniversary of establishing diplomatic relations between China and Poland, and we will tighten our friendship and understand each other better," he said.

Many of the people who came to the concert admitted they had little knowledge about Chinese traditional music. But only a few notes into the performance, it was clear that an immediate connection between the orchestra and the audience had been established.

By the end it was evident that cultural bridges had been built between the two geographically distant nations as the conductor, Liu Sha, together with his orchestra, took the spectators on a musical journey through Chinese tradition.

Krystyna is one of the spectators. She's in her eighties and is a frequent visitor to the hall. "I came here because Chinese culture interests me. It is a country that fascinates with its thousands of years of culture. This culture is incredibly visually rich.”

Piotr Osuch was another of the visitors we spoke to. He is from the Polish Association of Traditional Wushu and Chinese Culture. "I, myself, play the oldest Chinese instrument, so I appreciate the mastery and professionalism of this group, which showed an excellent level and amazing music," Osuch said.

The Chinese community in Poland is quite small, but it has a significant impact on the Polish Several large Chinese companies operate in Poland, contributing to the nation's GDP. And Monday's musical presentation emphasized the softer side of China-Poland relations. The reception by the audience - including eruptions of thunderous applause - proved those ties have hit a high note.

Subscribe to Storyboard: A weekly newsletter bringing you the best of CGTN every Friday

Video editor: Elizabeth Mearns