To mark the 30th anniversary of normalization of diplomatic relations between China and Japan, China's Central Nationalities Orchestra performed at Tokyo Art Theater on the 4th Radetzky March and composer Tan Dun's Northwest Suite using traditional Chinese instruments, warmly acclaimed by Japanese audience.

The Chinese Cultural Year opening ceremony concert was given at Tokyo Art Theater, conducted by Xu Zhijun who once conducted Puccini's opera Turandot. Celebrated performing artists such as Wu Yuxia, Feng Xiaoqun and Zeng Gege joined in the performance. Bell chimes, an ancient Chinese percussion instrument, also appeared on the stage.

The first item on the program Good News was followed by Cherry Blossom, a piece written by Japanese composer Mikinen from which one can realized the effect of Chinese culture on Japan. The most significant item was composer Tan Dun's Northwest Suite which includes Xin Tian You, Charivari in the Bridal Chanber and Shiban waist drum.  Despite what it displays is traditional Chinese music, the performance was greeted with rapturous applause by Japanese audience who live hundreds miles away from China. 

(April 4, 2002, from China Cultural News)