娱乐英语新闻:Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra begin world tour in Beijing

BEIJING, Nov.5 (Xinhuanet) -- The Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra, one of the world’s oldest and most critically acclaimed orchestras, have come to Beijing. Led by renowned German conductor Christian Thielemann. The orchestra delighted audiences with well-known Beethoven classics.

From Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5, also known as the Destiny Symphony, to Symphony No. 4, Christian Thielemann expertly leads the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra in a performance of Beethoven’s best-known symphonies.

This is the second time that the orchestra has performed at the National Center for the Performing Arts in Beijing. And this time around, musicians from the orchestra will play three concerts in total - all featuring Beethoven’s masterpieces.

"Beethoven is one of the greatest examples in the history of mankind. His music has inspired millions of people," said chairman and first violinist Clemens Hellsberg.

Most musicians in the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra are world-class performers. Its conductor Christian Thielemann is one of the foremost musicians in Europe.

The orchestra’s interpretations of the compositions have audiences captivated:

"Bravo! I’m a big fan of the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. This time, they really opened my eyes. Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5 is my favourite," said Yu Zhaofu.

"I usually watch them play on TV, but now they are right here in Beijing. It’s so exciting. I hope they will come more often," said Zhang Shizhi.

Beijing is the first stop on the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra’s Asian tour, before they head to Japan.