The Wuxi Symphony Orchestra performed the complete version of its original symphonic suite Feitian, or Flying Apsaras, for the first time globally on Sept 10 in Wuxi, opening the 2026 Taihu Arts Festival and the Wuxi venue of the 25th China Shanghai International Arts Festival.

Wuxi Symphony Orchestra performs the complete version of Feitian on Sept 10 in Wuxi. [Photo provided to en.wuxi.gov.cn]

The concert, held at the Wuxi Symphony Hall in its first year of opening, featured the Wuxi Symphony Orchestra alongside the National Center for the Performing Arts Orchestra and the Beijing Symphony Orchestra.

Musicians are dedicated to playing the symphonic suite Feitian at Wuxi Symphony Hall on Sept 10. [Photo provided to en.wuxi.gov.cn]

Composed by Li Shaosheng, the orchestra's music director, over several years, Feitian comprises eight movements that trace a narrative arc from mythological imagination to technological endeavor and philosophical reflection. The suite draws on the imagery of Dunhuang flying apsaras alongside China's space exploration ambitions. It received its partial premiere in 2024 and has since been performed at festivals in Europe and China, but Sept 19 marked the first complete presentation.

The 2026 Taihu Arts Festival runs from Sept 5 to Dec 10 and includes more than 170 cultural events across five program sections. This year's edition features appearances by internationally recognized artists, including violinist Anne-Sophie Mutter, pianist Krystian Zimerman, soprano Angela Gheorghiu, and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, as well as domestic ensembles and locally produced original works.

The Wuxi Symphony Hall is one of two principal venues for the season alongside the Wuxi Grand Theater, with additional performances scheduled in Jiangyin and Yixing. The festival maintains a public-access orientation, offering low-priced tickets and free exhibitions.