Learn about Chinese music with zodiac animals

A poster for Sunday's concerts. Photos courtesy of Shenzhen Concert Hall

This year’s Children’s Day falls on Sunday, and Shenzhen Concert Hall invites families to explore traditional Chinese instruments through intriguing stories of the 12 zodiac animals. In two special concerts, musicians from the Shanghai Chinese Orchestra will lead children into the enchanting world of Chinese music with original compositions accompanied by vibrant animations.

The Chinese zodiac is a cultural classification system in which each year in a 12-year cycle is assigned a specific animal. Each animal embodies personality traits believed to characterize the year and those born within it. According to legend, the Chinese zodiac was established by a race among the animals, a story that remains widely celebrated today, especially during Chinese New Year.

Shanghai Chinese Orchestra.

Sunday’s program features 12 original folk music pieces, each portraying a different zodiac animal. These compositions are paired with unique animations and stories by Shanghai artist Zhang Lelu, giving each zodiac sign a distinct musical voice and narrative.

“Roaring Tiger Drums” channels the power and majesty of the tiger through dynamic drumbeats that evoke the image of the beast roaring in the mountains. “The Music Fan Rabbit” offers a gentle, whimsical portrayal of a rabbit enjoying music quietly under the moonlight with soft melodies. Audiences can also gallop across the grasslands riding the tunes of the horsehead fiddle in “Horse in Musical Fantasy,” and witness the dragon’s majestic flight in “Dragon Soaring into Sky.” The goat’s theme draws on folk music elements, while the rooster’s piece presents a fresh reinterpretation of traditional Chinese music, featuring the flute as the solo instrument.

Founded in 1952, the Shanghai Chinese Orchestra is renowned for its distinctive style and virtuosity with traditional Chinese instruments. It has nurtured celebrated artists such as Zhang Ziqian, Lu Chunling, and Min Huifen, playing a significant role in the development of Chinese traditional music.

Visit Shenzhen Concert Hall for a joyful celebration of Children’s Day!

Tickets: 80-280 yuan480 yuan for two VIP tickets and 680 yuan for three VIP tickets

Time: 3 p.m., 8 p.m., June 1

Venue: Shenzhen Concert Hall, Futian District