Classical musicians from Russia and China came together at the Chongqing Grand Theater, the city's premier venue, for a concert that highlighted growing cultural ties between the two countries.

The performance given by musicians from Chongqing and Moscow Tchaikovsky Conservatories was also featured as a key project under the framework of the China-Russia Years of Education, underscoring education-focused exchange beyond the classroom.

"Performing together with Russian artists is a truly rare opportunity that is very rewarding. Russian musicians are very meticulous in their musical interpretation, stage presentation, and understanding of the works," said Wang Jianshu, associate professor at Chongqing Normal University.

More than 10 classic and original works from the Chinese and Russian repertoires were performed, captivating the audience with their heartfelt interpretations.

"It was very interesting to listen to and watch the musicians, the professionals, both from the Chinese and Russian sides, and how they collaborated. It was truly excellent and magnificent," said a Russian audience member.

Renowned Russian cellist Fyodor Amosov, who has been living and working in China for a year and a half, took the stage. For this concert, he composed a string quartet titled "Old Chongqing", in which he sought to recreate the image of a fairytale city perched on the hills.

The Chongqing Tchaikovsky Conservatory is a joint project between the local pedagogical university and the Moscow State Conservatory of Music. Several teachers from Moscow have already relocated to China to work in the conservatory. As part of this intergovernmental cooperation, Chongqing will continue to host various concerts, master classes, and other cultural events.

"Built on the strong friendship between the two countries fostered through the China-Russia Education Years, art education can play a major role," said Huang Yongyi, vice president of Chongqing Normal University.

She said that art education is capable of not only jointly preparing creative talent, but also organizing mutual exchanges and visits between students, teachers, and artists.

The Chongqing Tchaikovsky Conservatory opened just two months ago and is now preparing for its first academic year. In the meantime, its teachers have been finding time to delight audiences and showcase their mastery of timeless classical music.