Bi-lateral tensions between Australia and China in the trade and political spheres have dominated headlines over the past three years. The forging of connections between arts and culture organisations in the two countries has continued, however, largely uninterrupted.

On 4 February, the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra celebrated the Year of the Rabbit with its 10th annual Chinese New Year Concert with the orchestra led by Darrell Ang, Artistic Director and Chief Conductor of the Sichuan Symphony Orchestra (SSO).

It also marked the commencement of a multi-year partnership between the MSO and the Sichuan Symphony Orchestra, that builds on the sister-state relationship established between Sichuan Province and Victoria in 2015.

Darrell Ang leading the Sichuan Symphony Orchestra. Photo supplied.

The partnership will see the development of an exchange program between the two orchestras, which will include co-commissioning of Australian and Chinese works, the sharing of knowledge in administration and operations, promotion of each other in home countries, and opportunities for musicians and chief conductor exchanges.

Recognised as a leader in orchestral management in the Asia-Pacific region, the MSO has enjoyed active participation and representation in China’s burgeoning western music sector for many years.

“The MSO...