Trinidad and Tobago, China celebrate 50 years of ties

Trinidad and Tobago and the People’s Republic of China celebrated their 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations with a spectacular concert at the National Academy for the Performing Arts, (NAPA), Frederick Street, Port of Spain, on June 20.

The event showcased exceptional performances by the Shanghai Chinese Orchestra, the National Steel Symphony Orchestra (NSSO), the National Philharmonic Orchestra, and vocalist LeAndra, with Natacha Jones hosting the evening.

The night's entertainment began with vibrant performances by the NSSO, conducted by Kareem Brown. The set included four pieces, among them Tempest, composed by Brown, and Horse Racing, composed by Huang Haihuai. Accompanied by the Shanghai Chinese Orchestra, their performance ended in a medley of beloved pieces composed by the late Andre Tanker, a media release said.

Following this, the Shanghai Chinese Orchestra conducted by Yao Shenshen captivated the audience with its outstanding musicianship. The orchestra performed five pieces, including South of the Yangtze River, arranged by Wang Yunfei, and Dancing Phoenix adapted from the traditional Chinese music Birds Playing Homage to the Phoenix, which was arranged by Huang Lei.

Next, the National Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Dr Roger Henry took the stage and skilfully performed two pieces, including Black Stalin's Melody, arranged by Henry. The orchestra then joined forces with the Shanghai Chinese Orchestra for Silk Road composed by Jiang Ying.

One of the highlights of the evening was when both orchestras were accompanied by vocalist LeAndra, who performed the Chinese folk song, Jasmine, in Chinese. Her performance received thunderous applause and enthusiastic reactions from the audience, the release said.

The evening concluded with a grand finale featuring all three orchestras performing Engine Room composed by Olatunji and arranged by Andrew Charles.

The concert was a night of magnificent performances which left the audience at NAPA feeling fulfilled and eager for more.