The Shanghai Chinese Orchestra on Sunday opened its first-ever tour of Brazil with a performance of "Colors of China" at the Sala Cecilia Meireles theater in Rio de Janeiro, presenting a modern interpretation of traditional Chinese music to local people.
The six-city tour is part of the official Brazil-China Year of Culture 2026 and marks the orchestra's debut in the South American country.
Featuring thousand-year-old Chinese instruments alongside contemporary electronic music, the production combines traditional melodies, vibrant costumes and innovative stage design to present Chinese musical heritage through a modern artistic lens.
"I'm playing electronic and rock music with the suona (Chinese horn) because this performance brings youthful and modern energy, incorporating AI. We hope to bring something new and refreshing to the Brazilian audience," said suona player Hu Chenyun.
Founded in 1952, the Shanghai Chinese Orchestra is one of China's leading traditional music ensembles.
Colors of China comprises nine original works inspired by classical Chinese poetry, philosophy and the symbolism of traditional Chinese colors, displaying the orchestra's innovative approach to preserving and revitalizing Chinese musical traditions.
Production organizer Steffen Dauelsberg said the performance bridges tradition and contemporary artistic expression.
"It's a way how they can blend the artistic features with their tradition. So, it's a blend of tradition and modernity through music and through the arts," said Dauelsberg, the CEO of Brazilian cultural agency Dellarte Solucoes Culturais.
Premiered at the Shanghai Spring International Music Festival in 2024, Colors of China has become one of the orchestra's signature productions.
The internationally acclaimed ensemble has previously performed in major cultural centers like Berlin, Paris and Washington, D.C.
Following its opening performance in Rio de Janeiro, the orchestra will tour five other Brazilian cities.
Shanghai Chinese Orchestra starts first performance tour in Brazil
