The 10th Beijing International Scholars Exchange Platform event was recently held at the National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA). Co-organized by Tsinghua University's Office of International Affairs and the NCPA's Development and Cooperation Department, the event brought together over 30 international scholars and family members from Tsinghua University, China International Communications Group, and the Aerospace Information Research Institute of the Chinese Academy of Sciences.

Scholars taking a group photo at the NCPA

The event began with a guided tour of the NCPA’s main hall and permanent exhibition Stage of Glory: An Exhibition of NCPA’s Achievements. Through engaging explanations, the scholars not only appreciated the harmonious integration of architecture and art but also gained a comprehensive understanding of the NCPA’s role—as a hall for high art, a platform for showcasing China’s cultural vision, and a theater committed to public accessibility—along with its latest explorations in technology-driven artistic creation and dissemination. As David Robinson, a scholar from Tsinghua University, remarked, “Being able to participate in the guided tour of the NCPA provided a much deeper understanding than a simple visit alone, which was truly fantastic.”

Student volunteers explaining the history of the NCPA to the scholars

The subsequent discussion session featured Huang Wenhui, Director of the NCPA Development and Cooperation Department, who presented the NCPA’s work as a national cultural platform and top-level arts institution. The session saw active participation from attendees, who eagerly posed questions and exchanged views.

Participating scholars raising questions and sharing their thoughts

The evening’s highlight was the world premiere of Chinese Sights and Sounds—a symphonic choral work commissioned by the NCPA. Elizabeth Moreno, a scholar from Tsinghua University, shared, “The integration of traditional Chinese folk melodies with the orchestra was captivating, creating a rich and immersive atmosphere... What truly took my breath away was the singing of the soprano – her voice was absolutely stunning.” Gerrit de Leeuw, a scholar from the Chinese Academy of Sciences, also praised the performance: “It was a great opportunity to hear and see the wonderful performances by the orchestra, the two choirs, the soprano, and the tenor – all very famous and excellent performers.”

The Beijing International Scholars Exchange Platform, initiated and organized by Tsinghua University, aims to bring together leading global scholars in Beijing, promote high-level academic exchange and cross-cultural collaboration, and strengthen Tsinghua’s international influence and cultural reach.

From Office of International Affairs

Editor: Li Han