Music bridged cultural divides as Colombo hosted the “Conversation and Connection” concert series on Wednesday and Thursday, celebrating the International Day for Dialogue among Civilisations.
Hosted by the China Cultural Center in Sri Lanka and China Center for International Culture and Tourism Exchanges, the events underscored harmony through shared artistic traditions.
The series commenced at Devi Balika Vidyalaya, in Colombo on Wednesday, where over 150 teachers and students enjoyed a musical exploration of China’s 24 Solar Terms, a UNESCO-recognised intangible heritage.
The celebration continued at the Colombo Municipal Council Square on Thursday, gathering around 200 people, including officials of the Western Province Provincial Council, Colombo and Kotte Municipal Council, and students of the University of the Visual and Performing Arts and Confucius institutes in Colombo.
Under the theme “Ancient Melodies, New Voices,” traditional Chinese compositions such as ‘A Hundred Birds Paying Homage to the Phoenix’ and ‘Moonlit Night on the Spring River’ are intertwined with Sri Lankan music and dance performances, reflecting deep cultural resonance.
Ten Chinese musicians presented pieces on traditional instruments, including Konghou, Erhu, and Pipa. – Xinhua
