The Tehran Symphony Orchestra gave its first official concert in downtown Tehran on Thursday evening after hostilities broke out involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, as a show of unity and in hopes of peace.
The concert hall, which seats approximately 800 people, was packed to capacity.
During the hour-and-a-half performance, the orchestra performed classic works by musical masters such as Beethoven and Tchaikovsky for the audience.
Medhi Shafie, Deputy Minister of Culture and Islamic Guidance of Iran, said that regardless of how the situation evolves, Iranian artists will continue to stand with the nation and its people.
"Art has always held an important place in Iran. In times of crisis and war, art serves as a vital tool for strengthening resilience, hope, and social cohesion. Iran's diverse artistic forms have played a significant role by standing shoulder to shoulder with the people and the military during the wartime," he said in an interview with China Central Television (CCTV).
"I believe art is a powerful tool that helps us get through difficult times. It reminds us that life, despite its ups and downs and even in times of turmoil, is still wonderful," said an audience member.
Since the outbreak of the Iran war on February 28, many cultural and entertainment events in Iran have been suspended. This concert is one of the first to be held in Iran, and it is also part of Iran's efforts to stimulate economic development and restore social vitality.
Many audience members at the concert expressed their hope that the war would truly come to an end, allowing their life to return to peace.
Tehran orchestra holds first wartime concert to show unity, hope for peace
