During an interview in Xiamen, renowned conductor Fu Renchang collaborated with the Xiamen Philharmonic Orchestra, alongside the Xiamen Entrepreneurs Association Art Troupe and the Jimei University Mu Yin Choir, to celebrate the spirit of “Jia Geng” through music.
The symphonic concert, titled “Promoting the Jia Geng Spirit to Realize the Dream of National Rejuvenation,” took place on the evening of October 20th at the Xiamen International Conference Center Concert Hall, marking the 150th anniversary of Chen Jia Geng’s birth. Over 700 attendees, including descendants of Chen, guests from home and abroad, and representatives from the schools he founded, gathered to enjoy the performance.
The concert began with the symphonic piece “First Symphony Overture – Burning Years of Passion.” It reached a peak with the symphonic poem “Chen Jia Geng,” which used emotionally powerful musical storytelling to honor Chen’s lifelong dedication to patriotism, education, and community service.
Throughout the hour-long performance, a mix of ten classic pieces from both Eastern and Western cultures, including “Tribute to Love,” “Fujian Merchants Worldwide,” “In That Distant Place,” and “Blossoms and Full Moon,” were presented. The concert concluded with a stirring rendition of “Sing for the Motherland,” which resonated deeply with the audience.
Chen Jia Geng is often referred to as the “Banner of Overseas Chinese and National Glory.” For Xiamen, he represents not only a cultural icon but also an intrinsic source of spirit. The “Jia Geng Spirit” has not only shaped unique historical and cultural landmarks but has also subtly enriched the city’s cultural depth and character.
This year marks the 150th anniversary of Chen Jia Geng’s birth, and the city of Xiamen is celebrating with a series of engaging activities aimed at promoting the timeless values of “patriotism, unity, dedication, integrity, and innovation” inherent in the “Jia Geng Spirit.” The city invites compatriots from around the world to unite efforts in driving high-quality development with renewed vigor.
